One relevant statute is section 995 of the Civil Code, which states that "the superior interest and welfare of the minor will prevail over any other consideration in the determination of the issues" of child custody. Another relevant statute is section 996 of the Civil Code, which sets out specific factors to be considered when making child custody determinations, including:
- the age, health, and emotional needs of the minor;
- the physical, mental, and emotional health and age of the parents and other members of the household;
- the wishes of the parents;
- the wishes of the minor, taking into account his maturity and capacity for judgment;
- the history of domestic violence or child abuse;
- the stability and continuity of the minor's environment; and
- the economic resources of the parents.