How Does the Oregon Court Decide Who Gets Custody?

Oregon family law judges decide a dispute over child custody and parenting time based on the best interest of the child. To reach that decision, the court will consider:

  • The child’s emotional ties with other family members
  • The parents’ attitude toward and interest in the child
  • Whether it is desirable to continue an existing relationship
  • Abuse by either parent
  • The child’s preference as to primary caregiver (if that caregiver is fit)
  • Each parent’s willingness to facilitate the child’s relationship with the other parent