Best Interests of the Child
The Chicago Companion to the Child, Forthcoming
7 Pages Posted: 15 Feb 2008
Abstract
This brief article, for the forthcoming single-volume encyclopedia, "The Chicago Companion to the Child," offers an overview of the history and current use of the family law standard, "Best Interests of the Child." The standard arose out of changing ideas about child custody, and now is a pervasive touchstone in many countries for family law decisions of all kinds. The article also briefly discusses concerns that the standard encourages litigation, gives too much discretion to judges, and does not grant sufficient weight to the rights of parents.
Keywords: family law, custody, best interests
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