Opinion ID: 1253126
Heading Depth: 2
Heading Rank: 4

Heading: Physical Custody Finding

Text: The controlling concern in custody disputes is the best interest of the child. When domestic abuse is involved, safety is also a key consideration. We consider the following factors to determine who should rightfully have physical custody of Stephen: (1) Paula has no driver's license; (2) Stephen has a potentially dangerous ailment for which he needs medical care; (3) Paula admitted she had no idea that Stephen has a serious medical condition; (4) Paula may suffer from depression, which she does not treat; (5) Timothy is living in the family home near Stephen's school and friends; (6) Stephen and Timothy share many common interests and participate in sports and Cub Scouts together; (7) Paula committed domestic abuse against Timothy; (8) Paula is living with people who have assaulted Timothy; (9) Timothy testified he had been assaulted by Bill once before at the direction of Paula; (10) Timothy works in the evening; (11) Both testified that they were the primary caregiver; (12) Timothy testified that he is responsible for helping Stephen with his education; (13) Timothy testified that Paula and Stephen's relationship was unstable and unsupportive; and (14) Paula and Angie testified that Timothy tended to drink a lot, but Timothy denied this allegation. It is persuasive that at the conclusion of testimony, the district court found Timothy's testimony more credible and settled the dispute of facts in his favor. We feel there is sufficient evidence to support the district court's grant of physical custody to Timothy. Clearly, there are some positives and negatives for physical custody in both Timothy and Paula. Giving weight to the district court's witness credibility determination and factual findings, our court reaches the same conclusion as the district court. Our review of the record indicates Timothy is in the best position to provide for the current and long-term care of Stephen in the safest environment. The best interest of Stephen is properly served by keeping him in a place of normalcy and stability during this volatile time. As such, we uphold the grant of physical custody in Timothy for the duration of the protective order. AFFIRMED.