Divorce isn’t easy especially when there are children involved. It’s important for each party to fight to ensure that their rights are protected throughout the process. When children are involved in a divorce, decisions are even more complex. The court must decide what is in the best interests of the children.
Many men face the fear of losing their children as a result of a divorce. This is understandable since some courts tend to rule in favor of the mother in child custody hearings. However, this doesn’t mean that men have no rights.
Child custody
This refers to the obligations or rights of parents regarding their children. There are two types of custody that a parent can be awarded:
- Physical custody: This refers to the parent’s right to spend time with their child physically. Parents may be awarded joint, primary or sole custody of a child.
- Legal custody: This is when parents are given the right to make decisions regarding their child’s welfare, education and health. This custody may be joint, sole or primary.
Fathers have the right to seek custody too
When a couple is married, making decisions ought to be simple. Both parties should have a say in the life of their children. They work as a team to ensure the best interests of the children. However, when facing a divorce, these circumstances can quickly change. Mothers in many cases have the upper hand.
This doesn’t mean that men don’t have the right to fight for custody. In fact, fathers have equal rights under the law when it comes to child custody. However, fathers do need to show that they are fit to raise the child. You need to show that you can provide a positive environment and that is in your child’s best interest for you to raise him.
In the best interests of the child
It doesn’t matter who is fighting for custody for the child. The court will base its final decision on the best interests of the child. This may mean awarding one parent full custody or sharing custody between the parents. Whatever happens, your goal is that you remain an active part of your child’s life. Spend time with your children and get to know them. Support them as they pursue their interests by attending events and other special occasions.
Even if you are denied full or partial custody of the child, you can still fight for your visitation rights. Visitation will ensure that you spend some quality time with your child.
