According to Nebraska Revised Statute 43-2923, the best interests of a child require a parenting plan that provides for a child’s safety, emotional growth, health, stability, and physical care, and regular and continuous school attendance and progress for school-age children. The parenting plan should also promote a child’s continued contact with his or her families and parents who have shown the ability to act in the child’s best interests.

In determining custody and parenting arrangements, the court shall consider the best interests of the minor child, which shall include, but not be limited to, consideration of the foregoing factors and:

The relationship of the minor child to each parent prior to the commencement of the action or any subsequent hearing.

The desires and wishes of the minor child, if of an age of comprehension but regardless of chronological age, when such desires and wishes are based on sound reasoning.

The general health, welfare, and social behavior of the minor child.

Credible evidence of abuse inflicted on any family or household member.

Credible evidence of child abuse or neglect or domestic intimate partner abuse