Opinion ID: 1311615
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Seemingly much of the aforesaid prolix procedural parade was superfluous. Lawler v. Lawler, 175 N.W.2d 103, 109 (Iowa 1970).

Text: A prefatory reference to applicable guiding standards is deemed appropriate. At the threshold we accord weight to trial court's findings but will not abdicate our duty to review the record de novo and determine the issue presented upon the facts disclosed of record. See In re Marriage of Moorhead, 224 N.W.2d 242, 244 (Iowa 1974). Pivotal factors to be considered in effecting the always difficult subjective determination as to custodial placement of children are set forth in the case of In re Marriage of Winter, 223 N.W.2d 165, 166-167 (Iowa 1974). They need not be here repeated. In this jurisdiction it is well established the status of children should be fixed as soon as possible and thereafter seldom disturbed, then only for the most cogent reasons. See e. g., Stouwie v. Stouwie, 222 N.W.2d 435, 438 (Iowa 1974); Jacobs v. Jacobs, 216 N.W.2d 312, 314 (Iowa 1974); Halstead v. Halstead, 259 Iowa 526, 531-533, 144 N.W.2d 861 (1966). In the same vein we have consistently held, when it appears children are happy, well adjusted, adequately disciplined, and receiving proper care in a suitable home they should not be removed therefrom other than for the most persuasive causes. See e. g., In re Marriage of Pokrzywinski, 221 N.W.2d 283, 286 (Iowa 1974). It is also axiomatic the custody of minor children should not be awarded to or withheld from either parent as reward or punishment. See In re Marriage of Powers, 226 N.W.2d 810 (Iowa 1975); Carey v. Carey, 211 N.W.2d 342, 345 (Iowa 1973). Finally, in this area, the long range best interests of children is the polestar in resolving custodial rights. See In re Marriage of Pokrzywinski, 221 N.W.2d at 284, and citations; Iowa R.Civ.P. 344(f)(15).