Judges look at the overall best-interests factors, such as the child’s relationships, needs, and each party’s ability to place the child’s welfare first. Colorado law emphasizes child safety and requires close attention to any history of abuse, neglect, or coercive control. The court can consider the child’s preferences when consistent with safety and needs. Detailed caregiving histories, school and medical records, and testimony from professionals can be important. Recent statutory updates reinforce focusing evaluations and recommendations on best-interests factors in both initial and post-decree contexts. These standards come from the best-interests statute and related recent legislation.