In Missouri, the Court will consider several factors to determine the custodial arrangements for your children. The statutory factors require the Court to focus on what is in the best interest of the child. The Court will always try to protect the children from parental disputes, while allowing frequent and meaningful contact with both parents. The Judge will consider the needs and wishes of the children, health of the parents, and the child’s relationship with parents, siblings, and other family members. The Court may also appoint a Guardian ad Litem to represent the interests of the children in a dissolution proceeding. For a complete list of child custody factors, please see our child custody page.