Circa 2015, Pennsylvania decided to introduce statutory factors which need to be addressed in deciding any child custody ruling. The wording is fairly explicit:
In ordering any form of custody, the court shall determine the best interest of the child by considering all relevant factors, giving substantial weighted consideration to the factors specified under paragraphs (1), (2), (2.1) and (2.2) which affect the safety of the child.
23 Pa.C.S. 5328 (modified in August 2025)
Meanwhile, …