Parents who are divorcing should understand how Hawaii’s courts determine child custody.
There are many factors that the courts consider when making custody orders. In addition, families can share custody in several different ways.
Determining child custody
Judges prioritize the interests of children when making child custody determinations. When possible, family courts try to create custody orders that enable both parents to have meaningful relationships with their children. Courts also consider the desires of both parents and their individual ability to care for their children’s well-being.
Care-taking history can impact child custody orders. A history of drug use, alcoholism or domestic abuse can influence custody arrangements as well. In addition, Hawaii’s family courts evaluate children’s wishes and needs. Children who are mature and intelligent can express their preferences in custody decisions.
Arrangements for families
In Hawaii, divorced parents often share legal custody of their children. This arrangement allows both parents to have their say in important decisions, including schooling and medical care. Even parents who do not have physical custody can stay involved in their children’s upbringing.
In some cases, one parent has sole physical custody while the other has visitation rights. Noncustodial parents can still have contact and interactions with their children. Courts in Hawaii provide divorcing parents with guidelines that help create custody arrangements that benefit the family. Creating a child custody agreement together helps parents navigate sharing childcare after divorce.
Family courts in Hawaii issue child custody orders based on various factors with the intent of supporting children and families. In addition, divorced parents can explore various different options for sharing custody.