A parent has a fundamental, constitutional right to a relationship with their children. A court does have the power to override that parental right if there is good reason to believe that custody would jeopardize the safety or well-being of the child. The court will consider the best interests of the child in deciding who the better decision-maker(s) and care-taker(s) would be in the child’s life. This is often one of the major battles fought through family law courts, and the assistance of a competent family law lawyer can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome.