Child custody disputes can be difficult to deal with whether you live in Birmingham or elsewhere. There are a number of things that judges must consider when determining child custody. However, is obesity now a factor in certain child custody cases?

In October, an article in The Wall Street Journal confirmed that concerns over nutrition and obesity are now being raised in some child custody disputes. In some cases, one parent may question whether the other parent’s weight will hinder their parenting abilities. In other cases, concerns may be raised over a child’s diet and potential weight problem.

In 2009, a 14-year-old was removed from his home and put into foster care after his weight reached 555 pounds. His mother was charged with criminal neglect.

One father from Canada says his weight was one of the reasons that he lost custody of his two sons. He says the courts have concerns that he won’t be able to keep with his children. The 360 pound plans to appeal the court’s decision.

The rate of obesity has tripled in the last three decades. Close to 13 million children and teenagers in the United States are obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Because we know the health risks associated with obesity, a child’s physical well-being is now a consideration in more and more child custody cases.

Settling child custody disputes can be difficult and parents may become emotional. However, the courts remain committed to settling child custody disputes with the best interests of the child in mind.

Source: The Huffington Post, “Child Custody: Obese Father Plans Hunger Strike After Losing Custody,” June 21, 2012