Child Custody Law in Alabama

Alabama, like many states, recognizes the importance of the bond between parents and children. The state policy is to ensure frequent and continuing contact between minor children and both parents, as long as the parents have the ability to act in the best interests of the children. Although the state favors joint custody, there are many ways that custody may be awarded.

The court considers many factors, including:

• The age and gender of the child
• The child’s safety and well-being
• Parental characteristics
• Relationship of the child to each parent
• Home environments
• The child’s preference, depending on age and maturity
• Reports of expert witnesses or an independent investigator

Generally, the court either awards primary custody or joint custody, although the time awarded to each parent is not always an exact 50/50 split. When one parent is awarded primary physical custody, the other may be awarded parental access or visitation. The court will also take into consideration petitions for grandparent visitation if it is in the best interests of the child.