Equal Rights for Divorced Fathers

Equal rights for divorced fathers is a concept that is now firmly a part of the family law system in the United States. Certain presumptions that previously favored mothers in divorce cases have been abandoned by laws and various court decisions.

History

Until the mid-1980s, divorced fathers commonly did not have the same rights in regard to custody, visitation and some financial issues.

Considerations

A concerted effort has been initiated to move toward parity and equality between mothers and fathers in family law courts.

Child Support

Standardized guidelines are in use nearly everywhere in the U.S. today to avoid arbitrary decisions regarding a father's obligation in divorce cases.

Custody

Equal rights for divorced fathers has directly effected custody rulings. Men and women are now legally on the same footing when seeking custody of children.

Parenting Time

A father is no longer legally consigned to being a mere visitor in the life of his children.

Expert Insight

Despite more equality between mothers and fathers in divorce court, retaining a qualified, experienced family law lawyer is a wise decision to ensure that equal rights for divorced fathers are fully protected.

References

• Men's Rights
• Cornell Law School, Divorce: Overview
• Essential Guide to Divorce, Emily Doskow, 2008

Resources

• American Bar Association, Family law section