From the beginning, it’s important for fathers to recognize that both parents start out with the right to joint custody of the children. Simply put, the mother and father have equal rights to the children and their custody. In many households, both parents work, and many fathers actively participate in child rearing. Custody actions have many pitfalls, and the actions below are likely to result in lost custody for a father.
Failure to Be the Children’s Caretaker
In most homes, one parent is primarily responsible for handling the children’s needs, and the parent who is the primary caretaker typically has an edge in custody cases. If a father isn’t involved in homework, bathing, feeding and school activities, he’s at a distinct disadvantage when petitioning for custody. A father’s rights lawyer in Gilbert, AZ will recommend that the father demonstrate his ability to be a part of the children’s daily life.
Not Addressing Fitness Issues
A parent who takes drugs or alcohol, even casually, will have an issue when trying to win custody. Most family court judges take accusations of substance abuse very seriously, and such allegations are investigated via interviews, psychological evaluations, and random testing. If a father has substance abuse issues, they should seek immediate treatment.
Leaving a Detrimental Digital Trail
Thanks to technology, many custody cases feature evidence that can be used to portray a father in a less-than-flattering light. Such evidence can include photos, emails, text messages, and voicemails. If a father is prone to sending aggressive or impulsive messages to the other parent or to the children, he’s at risk of not getting custody.
Showing a Lack of Self-Control
It’s important for fathers to act with self-control and good judgment if they want to win child custody. If a parent regularly loses control of his anger, he’ll be at a severe disadvantage. A divorce is an emotional and difficult process, and fathers should seek counseling to get their emotions under control.
During divorce and custody actions, it’s important for dads to seek the advice of a father’s rights lawyer in Gilbert, AZ. With experience and advocacy on his side, a father can avoid making the above mistakes, and he can increase his chances of winning custody of the children. Call the law firm of Janet R. Feeley L.L.C. or browse the website for more details.
