The ability and disposition of each parent to meet the child's present and future developmental needs. The quality of the child's adjustment to the her or his present housing, school, and community and the potential effect of any change on the child. The ability and disposition of each parent to foster a positive relationship with the other parent and to insure the child has frequent and continuing contact with the other parent. The quality of the child's relationship with the parent who has been the primary care provider, given the child's age and developmental needs. The relationship of the child with any other people who may significantly affect the child.
Most people choose to hire a lawyer to present their cases to the court.
If you do choose to represent yourself, you must prepare ahead of time. You will need to present facts regarding each factor outlined above. Outline what you believe your child needs, and describe why and how you can better provide for such needs. Be prepared to outline what contact you believe the children should have with the other parent. If there are other witnesses who can give important information to the judge about the above factors, you have the right to bring those witnesses to the hearing.