Nevada Child Custody FAQ

How the Court Determines Child Custody
In determining custody of a minor child in an action brought under this chapter, the sole consideration of the court is the best interest of the child. If it appears to the court that joint custody would be in the best interest of the child, the court may grant custody to the parties jointly.

In determining the best interest of the child, the court shall consider, among other things:

(a) The wishes of the child if the child is of sufficient age and capacity to form an intelligent preference as to custody;

(b) Any nomination by a parent or a guardian for the child; and

(c) Whether either parent or any other person seeking custody has engaged in an act of domestic violence against the child, a parent of the child or any other person residing with the child.

A finding of domestic violence creates a rebuttable presumption that sole or joint custody of the child by the perpetrator of the domestic violence is not in the best interest of the child.

-From the Nevada Revised Statutes 125.480

Joint Custody
There is a presumption that joint custody would be in the best interest of a minor child if the parents agree to an award of joint custody.

The court may award joint legal custody, without awarding joint physical custody, if the parents have agreed to joint legal custody.

-From the Nevada Revised Statutes 125.490

Removing the Child from the State
If custody has been established, and the custodial parent intends to move outside of the state with the child, that parent must, as soon as possible and before the planned move, attempt to obtain the written consent of the noncustodial parent to move the child from this state. If the noncustodial parent refuses to give that consent, the custodial parent shall, before leaving this state with the child, petition the court for permission to move the child. The failure of a parent to comply with the provisions of this section may be considered as a factor if a change of custody is requested by the noncustodial parent.

-From the Nevada Revised Statutes 125C.200