When both parents are gunning to win the custody battle:

3-year-old daughter: Sitting in her car seat with a bag of candy, a plastic princess crown on her head, and shades playing on a very expensive tablet.

When both parents are involved in a custody battle, various factors are considered to determine the best interests of the child. It's important to note that I am an AI and cannot provide legal advice, but I can offer some general information.

In a custody battle, the court aims to make decisions that prioritize the child's well-being and provide a stable and nurturing environment. Factors such as the child's age, existing relationship with each parent, living conditions, and ability to care for the child are usually taken into account.

In the scenario you've described, it seems that the 3-year-old daughter is in a comfortable situation with both parents eager to have custody. Here are a few steps parents might take in a custody battle:

1. Seek legal counsel: Each parent should consult with an experienced family law attorney to understand their rights, responsibilities, and legal options.

2. Gather evidence: Both parents may gather evidence showing their ability to meet the child's physical and emotional needs. This can include records of parenting responsibilities, financial stability, and references from professionals such as teachers or doctors.

3. Mediation or negotiation: In some cases, parents can come to a custody agreement through mediation or negotiation, potentially reducing conflict and costs associated with prolonged court battles.

4. Court evaluation: If the parents are unable to reach an agreement, the court may order evaluations such as custody evaluations or home studies. Professionals will assess various factors to provide recommendations to the court.

5. Court hearing: If the custody dispute cannot be resolved outside of court, a judge will evaluate the evidence and make a decision based on the best interests of the child.

It is crucial for both parents to prioritize the child's well-being throughout the process.