When parents decide to separate, one of the biggest questions and disputes that can arise involves the custody of children. In Pennsylvania and across the country, laws are in place to facilitate the needs of children and offer protection. However, it is not uncommon for parents to disagree on child custody arrangements. Recently in another state, a custody battle involving a 5-year-old girl made headlines.
Reports indicate the custody dispute involved the girl’s biological father and the man that was married to the girl’s mother at her time of birth. According to custody laws in the girl’s state, when a child is born, the legal father is presumed to be the husband of the child’s mother. Apparently, the girl’s biological father is seeking parenting rights and shared custody.
However, the girl’s legal father refuses to relinquish any rights and claims he wants to be a part of the child’s life even if he were to separate from the mother, reports say. Authorities say the girl’s parents remain married, and no divorce documents have been filed. The case has been escalated to the Supreme Court of their state.
Sadly, it is typically the children who suffer the most in custody battles. No matter the scenario, it is extremely important that parents keep the well-being of the children as the top priority. Fortunately, there is help available for Pennsylvania residents who have questions regarding child custody and custody laws. An experienced family law attorney could help an individual navigate through this emotional and uncertain time.
Source: wctv.tv, “Florida girl amidst court dispute between biological father and man married to mother“, Mike Vasilinda, May 8, 2018
