• moral character and prudence of the parents;

• physical, emotional, mental, religious, and social needs of the child; 

• capability and desire of each parent to meet the child's emotional, educational, and other needs; 

• preference of the child, if the child is of sufficient age and capacity; 

• the love and affection and other emotional ties existing between the child and each parent;

• the length of time the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity; 

• the desire and ability of each parent to allow an open and loving frequent relationship between the child and the other parent;

• the child's adjustment to his or her home, school, and community; 

• the mental and physical health of all individuals involved; 

• the permanence as a family unit of the proposed custodial home or homes; 

• any evidence of domestic violence; and 

• any other relevant factors. 

A Michigan court may also award joint custody. If there is a request for joint custody, or if such an arrangement is being considered, a Michigan Court will make its determination based upon the "best interest" factors and the following: 

• whether the parents will be able to cooperate and generally agree concerning important decisions affecting the welfare of the child; and

• if the parents agree on joint custody.  

If the parties agree to share joint custody, a Michigan Court will presume that such an arrangement is in the child's best interests.

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