If you work a full-time job, travel often
and the mother has been the primary caretaker for the children, then
sole physical custody may not be likely (unless the mother is incapable
of or derelict in caring for the children). However, if you have played
an active role in parenting the children, caring for their needs,
attending medical appointments, attending school functions and PTA
meetings, then the Courts will look at the history and may determine
that joint or even full custody should be awarded to you.
It is important that a father seeking
joint or fully custody help themselves by: (a) having adequate housing
for the children; (b) living in a good school district; (c) having a
work schedule that makes joint or sole custody plausible; (d) exhibiting
patience and an even temperament (and avoiding what we call a "bar
fight" mentality); (e) complying with all court orders; and (f) making a
positive impression with the guardian ad litem, if one is appointed.
A guardian ad litem is an attorney
appointed by the court to represent the children. It is imperative that
a father in any custody case make a positive impression with the
guardian ad litem. Although each Judge will make and independent
analysis of the case before them in determining custody arrangements,
Judges often rely heavily on a guardian ad litem's recommendation and it
is usually an uphill battle if the guardian ad litem does not support
your cause.
Candidly, not every father is going to
get equal time with his children. However, every father should have an
equal right to custody. The attorneys at Stange Law Firm believe in this
principal. In representing many fathers in custody battles, our goal is
to help fathers prepare and present a reasonable case for joint or sole
custody. It is imperative that fathers follow the advice of their
attorney in seeking sole or joint custody.
Attorneys at Stange Law Firm have
obtained sole custody and joint custody for many fathers.
