Dads Interested in Their Custody Rights Can Get Solid Assistance From a Lawyer
Dads Interested in Their Custody Rights Can Get Solid Assistance From a Lawyer
For dads who are interested in getting more information on their rights as fathers, a lawyer may be quite helpful in assisting them as they navigate through divorce proceedings and custody battles. In fact, a good attorney may be able to turn a fiercely fought divorce into a smooth one while still maintaining their client’s rights are exercised to the extent that they wish.
The initial phase in exercising one’s rights as a father may be to understand the different arrangements or agreements that may be brought up during divorce proceedings. These arrangements may include joint legal custody and/or joint physical custody. Sole physical custody may also be spoken of, and it is important that the client know exactly what each means. An attorney specializing in divorce or custody cases will provide their client with a more detailed explanation, but a basic understanding is often helpful.
A dad’s rights, in most cases, should be equal to those of his ex-wife, and a hardworking lawyer may be able to ensure that a fair arrangement is reached. Both parties may discuss several options when considering the custody of their children. Some form of joint custody is common in many cases; however this does not mean that both parties will necessarily be entitled to spend an equal amount of time with their children.
For instance, parents may share joint legal custody, in which both parties are able to make decisions regarding their children’s health, education and religious affiliation, but a sole physical custody agreement may be reached as well. This means that the children will live with one parent, while the other parent may be entitled to visitation rights. In this case, there is a custodial parent and a non-custodial parent.
Joint physical custody refers to an arrangement in which both parents are entitled to see their children frequently for an extended period of time. How often and how long is not made clear in many cases, which may require the parents to litigate to determine the meaning. An attorney may be helpful in ensuring their client that their rights as a father will be protected during these proceedings, and that a fair arrangement for both parties may be worked out.
Understanding these legal terms and grasping the arrangement that is implied is important if fathers wish to exercise their rights in child custody cases. An attorney is often helpful in making sure their client understands these arrangements and what rights they possess as a father.