In Missouri, a father’s rights are protected by statutes, which state that gender cannot be a factor in the awarding of child custody. Though these laws are gender neutral, family divorce lawyers know that a ruling might not play out as gender blind as it should be. That’s why the violation of a father’s rights in St. Louis isn’t a result of the law, but rather the people associated with the case. It comes down to the judge, the opposing family law attorneys, and family members advocating for “traditional” outcomes, which usually strip a father’s rights.
This is why it’s so important to have a good divorce lawyer on your side. They know how to deal with all of the factors that are usually set between you and the custody of your children. After all, if you and your former spouse are on equal footing, there’s no reason that you should be considered less worthy of having custody.
The key is the child’s best interest. Divorce lawyers will persuade the judge and the court that awarding custody to you is in the children’s best interest by appealing to the several factors that determine this best interest.
Such factors include children’s age, gender, physical health, mental health, and established living patterns, such as their school, home, community, and religious institutions. If allowing you custody of the child does little to affect their status quo, then you’re in a good position to win custody.
There are also factors surrounding you that determine a child’s best interests as well. Divorce lawyers know that courts also take into account a parent’s mental health, physical health, ability to provide such things as food, shelter, clothing, and medical care, and social factors, such as exposure to second hand smoke.
Children also get a say in whom they want to live with as well. If above a certain age, which is usually 12, a child can decide on their own. Additionally, courts will take into account the emotional bond between a child and his or her parents. If you have a stronger tie that will work in your favor.
If you’re serious about winning custody, you’ll need the help of a divorce lawyer. If you have any questions about how divorce lawyers can win you custody, feel free to ask in the comments. Read this for more: familylawstlouis.com
