The Child Custody Act 1839

The Child Custody Act 1839 was a law in the UK that aimed to establish clear rules for determining the custody of children after a divorce or separation. It focused on the best interests of the child, emphasizing that custody should prioritize the child's welfare and well-being over parental rights. The Act introduced procedures for courts to decide who should have custody and provided guidelines to ensure children were cared for properly. Essentially, it marked an important step towards formalizing custody laws to protect children's rights and promote their stability during family changes.