Divorce and Fathers’ Rights
In the past, if a couple with children opted to divorce, the mother was often granted full custody. In those situations, fathers would be awarded visitation rights. These visitation times would often fall on every other weekend and agreed upon holidays. But those rules are the guidelines of decades ago. Now, when spouses divorce, a father will likely be awarded equal parenting time.
Still, many fathers going through the divorce process do not feel they are getting equal say in the decision making process. Are you not satisfied with the allocation of parenting time within a current parenting plan? Fathers have rights. A Bucks County family attorney knows how to ensure fair parental time is awarded.
Fathers Improve the Well-Being of Children
There are many studies that illustrate the benefits of children spending time with their fathers. According to one statistic, nearly a quarter of children in America live in homes that are absent of their biological father. This can be harmful for children. Children are more likely to struggle in school and engage in risky behavior when they grow up without a father present.
In most instances, both parents have legal rights to parenting time with their kids. Mothers and fathers are entitled to continue the relationship they have built with their children, even after a divorce is finalized.
Joint custody can be beneficial for the following reasons:
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The kids have access to the support and influence of both their parents.
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When the parents are able to communicate in a healthy way, children can learn how adults can work together, even when they are no longer married.
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Shared custody can give parents a relief from the stress of child rearing. Responsibilities can be distributed when both parents agree to a joint custody agreement.
Who Pays and Receives Spousal Maintenance Payments
Spousal maintenance, sometimes referred to as alimony, is when one person has a legal obligation to provide financial support to their spouse after a divorce or marital separation is finalized. Payments are often connected to the income of the individual who will be making the payments.
Not all divorces result in maintenance payments. A court will decide if payments are necessary. They will weigh a number of factors, including if one person took care of the home while the other person worked, what the earning potential is for both individuals, and how long the couple was married. Often it is assumed wives are the only ones to receive spousal maintenance. This is not true, husbands can be awarded maintenance payments as well.
Awarding child support will depend on the parenting plan. If one parent is caring for the children the majority of the time, the court may award support payments to cover the food, housing, and medical care for the kids.
Are you a father struggling to secure your parental rights? Fathers have the same rights as mothers, the family law attorneys at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. can help. Our dedicated legal team understands the finer points of family law. There are opportunities to create the life you want. Schedule your consultation today, call 215-968-6602.