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Oct 08, 2026
If you’re a parent going through a custody hearing in Southwest Louisiana, you may be wondering, “How do Jefferson Davis Parish judges decide child custody cases?” Parents arguing over custody may likely wonder what issues are most important to a judge.
Judges are not simply tasked with determining which parent has a stronger argument. The court looks closely at a number of factors to determine child custody.
Why Choose Godley Law Firm?
Attorney William L. Godley is a licensed counselor who has helped families with custody, divorce, and other family law matters for over 20 years. During his career as a professional musician, he toured with people from all over the world. This exposed him to many different cultures and helped shape his belief that family comes in many forms.
He is also divorced and was raised by divorced parents. William understands firsthand how impactful divorce can be on both parents and children.
The Child’s Best Interests Guide Custody Decisions
Every family and child in a custody case is unique. With that in mind, judges use broad discretion when considering each parent’s and family’s circumstances. One piece of evidence is not likely to dictate the outcome of your custody case.
Judges consider things like the emotional bonds a child has with each parent, how well each can meet the child’s needs, and how stable the child’s home and community life is. Courts also consider the child’s safety when making custody decisions.
Evidence of past or present abuse, violence, substance abuse, or criminal activity can impact your custody case. A judge may consider whether each parent is willing to allow the child to maintain a relationship with the other parent. Exceptions arise only when a child’s safety is compromised.
Jefferson Davis Parish is home to an estimated 12,068 households, based on the Census Bureau’s 2024 American Community Survey. The average household size is 2.6 residents.
Approximately 52% of those aged 15 and up are married, with about 10% of men and 14% of women in that same age bracket reporting as divorced. These statistics provide insight into the types of family and household composition in Jefferson Davis Parish.
Considering Who the Primary Caregiver Is
A parent’s previous involvement in a child’s day-to-day activities can be relevant to a custody decision, but being the primary caregiver does not guarantee any particular outcome. Judges can consider who:
- Takes the child to school
- Arranges medical care
- Prepares meals
- Assists with homework
- Takes the child to extracurricular activities
This information can help the court understand the child’s current situation and each parent’s capacity to care for the child.
The Child’s Input
Children cannot demand to live with the parent of their choice just because they reach a certain age. However, judges are permitted to take a child’s wishes into account if they’re mature enough to express them.
Judges also are not bound by a child’s wishes. A judge can consider that preference but still place the child based on his or her safety, current family relationships, home environment, schooling, and other factors. Parents should understand that the decision ultimately belongs to the court, even if their child is adamant about living with them.
Child Custody Cases in Jefferson Davis Parish
Family law cases involving parents and children who live in Jennings and Jefferson Davis Parish communities are typically filed in the 31st Judicial District Court. The Jefferson Davis Parish Courthouse is located at 300 North State Street, Jennings, LA 70546.
The logistics of getting children to and from each parent can have a significant impact on parents living in Jennings, Welsh, Lake Arthur, or any other community served by Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 90. Distance can become a factor when developing a parenting schedule. For example, where the children are going to attend school, transporting the children to each parent’s home, work schedules, and travel required for custody exchanges.
Hire a Child Custody Lawyer
Interested parents have the option to hire a child custody lawyer. An attorney can help whether parents cannot agree about custody or whether an existing court order needs to be modified. A child custody attorney can help you prepare the necessary paperwork to advocate for a favorable child custody arrangement.
Should your case proceed to court, Godley Law Firm can represent you and your interests for your child. We understand Jefferson Davis Parish child custody laws and can help you in your case.
