There are many variables that a New Jersey judge will likely take into consideration when crafting a child custody order. The location, size and condition of your home may be among these variables. While you don’t need to live in a mansion to be seen as a fit parent, your home needs to be a safe space where your child can thrive.
Is your home large enough to meet your child’s needs?
At a minimum, your son or daughter will need a private area where he or she can sleep, get dressed and study. A judge may prefer that you live in a home or apartment that has more than one bathroom. This will make it easier for your child to get ready in the morning, and it can also help to protect a young person’s privacy.
Is your home located in a safe part of town?
A judge won’t require you to live in a home that you cannot afford as a condition of gaining access to your child. However, if this means that you live in a part of town that has a high rate of crime, drug use or other unsavory behavior, it could hurt your chances of being a custodial parent. If possible, it may be a good idea to move to an area that a judge considers more suitable for raising a young person.
Do you live outside of your child’s current school district?
When creating a child custody order, a judge will seek to provide a minor with as much stability as possible. This typically means keeping your child in the same school district. If you live outside of your son or daughter’s current district, it may be in your best interest to move inside of it.
A family law attorney may be able to help you obtain a favorable child custody arrangement. This might be done by convincing a judge that your home is large enough for your son or daughter and that it is in a safe location.