If you are going through a divorce in Pennsylvania and have children, one of the most critical aspects is determining child custody. The court encourages parents to come to an agreement on custody before appearing in court, but if an agreement cannot be reached, the court will step in and make a decision based on the best interest of the child.

Pennsylvania recognizes two types of custody: physical and legal. Physical custody refers to where the child will live, and legal custody refers to the authority to make important decisions on behalf of the child regarding education, healthcare, and religion.

When creating a child custody agreement in Pennsylvania, the following factors should be considered:

1. The child`s best interest: This is the primary consideration in a custody agreement. The court can consider factors such as the child`s age, health, and relationship with each parent when making a decision.

2. Parental roles: Each parent`s role in the child`s life should be considered, including their ability to provide for the child`s physical, emotional, and educational needs.

3. Child`s preferences: The court may consider the child`s preferences, depending on their age and maturity level.

4. Co-parenting ability: The parents must demonstrate an ability to co-parent and communicate effectively regarding the child`s needs.

5. Any history of abuse or neglect: If a parent has a history of abuse or neglect, it can impact their ability to obtain custody.

When creating a child custody agreement in Pennsylvania, it is essential to ensure that it meets the state`s legal standards. Consulting with a qualified family law attorney can help ensure that the agreement is legally sound and in the best interest of the child.

In conclusion, child custody agreements in Pennsylvania require careful consideration of the child`s best interest, parental roles, co-parenting ability, and any history of abuse or neglect. If you are going through a divorce, consulting with a family law attorney can help ensure that your child custody agreement is legally sound and in your child`s best interest.