On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in child custody on Thursday, December 14, 2017.
Home is a place to unwind, bond with family and friends and enjoy peace of mind — these aspects are especially ideal for children who are affected by divorce. Millions across the nation struggle with making two homes what one used to be. Yet a 2016 Missouri law has caused many parents to develop concern in regards to how much time, exactly, they are able to spend with their own children. Much confusion has surrounded this 50/50 parenting law, and some fathers in particular have decided to speak out.
In September 2016, KSHB News covered the lobby carried out by the movement on father’s rights that ended up in Washington D.C. The movement focused on the potential Missouri parenting laws that were subject to change, regarding parents’ encouraged equal rights to their children post-separation. Some of the fathers involved in the movement had spent little to no time with their own children due to preexisting child custody laws. Like most states, however, Missouri prioritizes the best interests of the child in divorce cases — with that said, the fine print can make matters complicated.
The 16th Circuit Court of Jackson County, Missouri relays the process of solving mediation issues that many parents in the state encounter. According to the Court’s resource on mediation requirements, all parties involved must meet the following criteria in a child custody case:
- Participation in a minimum of two hours of mediation
- Payment to the mediator for the two hours
- Mediator must be appointed by the Court
The Court continues by adding that mediation fees depend on each parent’s level of income. If parents fail to comply with these requirements, or fail to show up at the mediation altogether, fees may still apply. While there may never be one single solution for child custody battles, knowing the law and all surrounding details can make the process smoother for both parents, and especially for children.
