English
EspañolHow will a judge make a decision about custody?
The judge will decide who gets custody based on what s/he believes is in the best interest of the child.1 If the judge has found that the other parent committed domestic or family violence against you, s/he is required to consider it when making his/her decision.2 Go to Can a parent who committed violence get custody? for more information.
CNMI law does not list specific “best interest” factors for a judge to consider. Here are a few general examples of things some judges might take into account:
- the emotional, social, moral, and educational needs of your child;
- the home environments offered by each parent;
- the relationship your child has with each parent;
- your child’s wishes, if s/he is old enough and mature enough to give his/her preference; and
- the mental stability of each parent, including any mental illness or drug use.
1 See 8 CMC §§ 1311; 1715(c)
2 8 CMC § 1932
