Myths and Facts About Father's Rights
It's been a long-held belief that there is a bias in the courts in favor of women, and that any mother who wants full custody of her children will easily get it. Many states have been working to change this and to give equal protection to both parents. Today, in the state of California, it is assumed that each parent has equal rights and responsibilities for the children. Many fathers still worry about their rights in the case of a dispute, so here are various things that father's rights include.
Father's rights
During a divorce or a custody dispute, father's rights include:
- Being involved in children's lives and spending time with them
- Equal participation in parenting
- Having an equal say in decisions such as where the children live and what church they attend
- Equal access to school and medical records
- Participation in medical appointments and treatment decisions
- Ability to parent and discipline without interference from the other party
Father's that want equal rights must also share in the responsibilities of raising children, which includes financial support. These rights and custody are assumed when a marriage takes place in the state of California so the father should never concede the rights, even short-term. If not married, paternity made need to be established before the father can assume these equal rights.
Child Support Arrearages
Sometimes there are instances in which a father wishes to re-affirm his parental rights or is facing issues with child support arrearages and garnished wages. Also, while there is not supposed to be a bias in favor of the mother, this isn't always the reality of our present court system. Proper representation can help fathers to navigate these waters and to place them back in their children's lives, where they belong.
In California, men are given the same rights as women and are entitled to equal custody and support. If you have a question about your rights or would like to schedule a free consultation with a California family law attorney, please contact us today.