A divorcing father needs to learn about his custody rights before the marriage dissolution process begins. Fathers’ custody rights are on equal footing with the mother’s rights. Fathers must be aware of and enforce their parental rights, and they should visit this website to hire legal counsel when necessary. When it comes to fathers’ rights, no one will fight harder than a family lawyer in Albuquerque, NM.
A Competent, Loving Father Deserves the Chance to Have Custody
Divorcing fathers should have the same rights that mothers have where child custody is concerned. Family court judges award custody after reviewing parents’ and witnesses’ testimony, hearing from a guardian ad litem and asking the children their opinions. Fathers may prevail if it’s in the child’s best interest; judges may award joint custody, or they may give sole custody if the mother is deemed unfit.
What’s the Difference Between Physical and Legal Custody?
Family courts are tasked with making both legal and physical custody decisions. While physical custody is the day-to-day responsibility of caring for children and legal custody is the capability to make childcare decisions, both arrangements require parents to work together. In most cases, the mother receives primary custody, but fathers often get joint custody. Getting one’s legal rights as a father means more than gaining custody; it’s about establishing fair parenting time with the children.
Parents Can Make Their Own Arrangements
Except in instances of neglect or abuse, parents are allowed to develop their own custody arrangements. Family law attorneys can help fathers draft written agreements, which are presented to the judge for final review. By hiring a family lawyer in Albuquerque, NM, a father can protect his interests and ensure that his rights are exercised to the full extent of the law.
If a father can prove that he’s a good caregiver, it is possible for him to win custody. With legal help from The Carter & Valle Law Firm, fathers can prepare a case for legal or physical custody of the children. From there, the father can play a key role in his children’s lives, and he can positively influence their development.
