Nevada Child Custody Laws

Parents must come to an agreement on child custody when they separate. These arrangements include how they will make major decisions regarding their child moving forward, and how they will share their time with their child. If parents are unable to come to an agreement, courts will decide the best course of action based on state child custody laws.

State child custody laws are fairly similar from one state to the next, and all states (except Massachusetts) have adopted the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). Nevada child custody laws recognize the option of joint custody; allow for visitation by grandparents; and consider the child's own wishes before ordering custody terms.

Here is a brief overview of child custody laws in Nevada.

Child Custody Statutes in Nevada: At a Glance

Learn more about Nevada child custody laws in the chart below. You can also visit FindLaw's Child Custody section for more introductory information on this topic.

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.

Nevada Custody Hearings

If you and your ex cannot agree on a custody arrangement, you may have to attend a custody hearing in court. If a judge has to determine custody issues, they will create an arrangement based on your child's best interests.

Nevada family courts may consider any factors that are relevant to your child's best interests, and generally, give more consideration to the factors that will affect your child's safety and well-being. Some of these factors will focus on your child, like their preference (if they are old enough), their relationship with any siblings, and the need for consistency and continuity in his or her education, community, and family life.

Other factors may focus on you and your ex, like:

• Which of you is more likely to take care of the daily physical, emotional, developmental, educational, and special needs of your child;
• Which of you is more likely to maintain a loving, stable, consistent, and nurturing relationship with your child; and
• Which of you is more likely to encourage and allow frequent contact between your child and the other parent.

A judge can also consider certain criminal charges and convictions, any past or present physical abuse, and whether either parent has a history of drug or alcohol abuse.

Get Legal Help with Child Custody

If you and your child's other parent are separating, you might not agree on how the child custody arrangement should look. Child custody matters can be difficult to sort out, and you may find it helpful to talk to an attorney. You can contact a Nevada family law attorney near you to discuss your case.