RE: Sam’s Hangout #100 - “CHILD CUSTODY AND CARE”

"In custody battles between parents who are no longer together, what factors do you think should matter most in deciding who the child lives with"?

Here is my take;
In custody battles between separated parents,courts mostly focus on the child's best interests above all else, as required by laws like Nigeria's Child Rights Act.

This means decisions aren't just about who the parents want or their money, but what truly helps the child grow strong and happy.

From child custody cases I have watched, courts don't let parents' selfish wishes or one parent's bank account decide who gets the kids. Instead, they focus only on what's best,like a stable home, love and growth,putting the kid's future first.They also look at factors like;

The Child's emotional bond: Which parent has the strongest daily tie,like feeding, schooling and playing?These bonds beat cash every time.

Stability and home life:Keeping school, friends and routine matters a lot,sudden moves far away, can harm the child.

Parental fitness:Does the parent avoid violence, drugs, or neglect? A safe, loving home always wins over chaos.

Child's wishes (if mature):Kids over 7-10 get heard, but only if their choice makes sense,not pushed by a parent.

Co-parenting ability:The parent who backs the other's role, even after fights, shows maturity and kid-first thinking(that's means putting your children's needs, happiness and well-being ahead of your own ego, anger, or personal grudges,especially after a breakup).

In conclusion,money helps with needs like school fees and the likes,but love and care beat wealth every time.Courts value emotional love and daily care (like hugs, bedtime stories and stability) more than a fat wallet alone. Thank you.