Posted by DivorceLine in Arkansas Child Custody Laws
The award of custody of a child of the marriage shall be made without regard to the sex of a parent but solely in accordance with the welfare and best interest of the child, including:
a) The circumstances of the parties and the child;
b) The nature of the case;
c) The preferences of the child, if the child is of sufficient age and capacity to reason.
d) Which party is more likely to allow frequent and continuing contact with the non-custodial parent.
e) Domestic abuse by either party.
When a court order holds that it is in the best interest of a child to award custody to a grandparent, the award of custody shall be made without regard to the sex of the grandparent.
[Based on Arkansas Code 9-13-101]
Child Support:
In determining a reasonable amount of support, the court shall refer to the most recent revision of the family support chart. Child support is to be paid through the Arkansas child support clearinghouse. If the paying parent is not self-employed, payment is paid by a wage assignment. Child support continues until age 18, unless the child has not yet graduated from high school, or has a disability that will prevent independent living.
[Based on Arkansas Code 9-12-312, 9-14-102, 9-14-106]
