Custody Cases in Divorce Cases Parental Rights and Children’s InterestsCustody Cases in Divorce Cases: Parental Rights and Children’s Interests
Divorce processes deeply affect not only the couples’ own lives but also the lives of their children. Custody cases are a critical stage in this process where it is decided which parent the children will live with. Parental rights and children’s interests are the most important factors in these cases. In this article, we will examine in detail how custody cases are conducted, parental rights and methods to protect children’s interests.
What is a Custody Case?
Custody cases are the legal process in which it is decided which parent the child will live with during the divorce process. Custody is a set of rights and obligations that regulate the care, education, health and general well-being of the child.
1.1. Definition of Custody
Custody refers to the authority to take care of the child’s personal and financial care. Parents have the obligation to meet the child’s education, health and daily needs. Custody decisions are made according to the child’s age, needs and the parents’ situation.
1.2. Types of Custody
Joint Custody: The child is given regular time with both parents. The parents share the child’s care and education responsibilities together.
Sole Custody: The child is left in the care of only one parent. The other parent usually has visitation rights.
Parent Rights in Custody Cases
2.1. Rights and Responsibilities of Parents
The rights and responsibilities of parents in custody cases are as follows:
Care and Education: Parents have the obligation to provide for the child’s care and education.
Decision-Making Authority: They have the authority to make decisions about education, health, and other important matters.
Visit Rights: In sole custody cases, the other parent may have visitation rights.
2.2. The Role of Parents in Custody Cases
Parents must look out for the best interests of their children in custody cases. This requires the parents to consider the child’s overall well-being, psychological state, and needs.
Mutual Agreement: Parents can make decisions about custody by mutual agreement, if possible.
Court Decisions: In case of disagreement between the parents, the court makes the custody decision.
Children’s Interests
3.1. The Child’s Best Interest Principle
Courts make decisions in custody cases by taking into account the child’s best interests. This principle aims to protect the child’s general well-being and health.
Psychological and Physical Well-being: The child’s psychological and physical health are taken into account in the custody decision.
Family Relations: The protection of the child’s existing family relationships is also an important factor.
3.2. The Child’s Opinion
Depending on the child’s age and developmental level, the child’s views may also be taken into account. However, the child’s own wishes do not take precedence over court decisions.
The Child’s Age: The child’s age and maturity level play a role in the evaluation of their views.
Professional Reports: Expert reports on the child’s psychological state are also taken into account.
Legal Process in Custody Cases
4.1. Filing a Lawsuit
To file a custody case, parents apply to the court. The court evaluates the parents’ situation and the child’s needs.
Petition: A petition is submitted to the court and custody requests are stated.
Evidence and Documents: Documents proving that the parents are suitable for the care of the child are submitted.
4.2. Court Decisions
The court makes a custody decision by evaluating various factors. This decision aims to protect the best interests of the child.
Interim Decisions: The court may issue temporary custody decisions during the trial process.
Final Decision: At the end of the custody case, the court makes a decision that considers the best interests of the child.
Things to Consider in Custody Cases
5.1. Professional Assistance
It is important to receive legal and psychological counseling in custody cases. Professional assistance ensures that the process is conducted in a healthier and fairer manner.
Legal Consultancy: Lawyers protect the rights of the parents in custody cases and manage the process.
Psychological Consultancy: Consultancy services can be received to support the psychological state of the children and parents.
5.2. Needs of the Children
In custody cases, the child’s special needs and conditions should be taken into consideration. The child’s education, health and general living conditions are taken into consideration.
Education and Health: The child’s educational status and health needs are important.
A Safe Environment: The environment in which the child lives must be safe and supportive.
Custody litigation is a critical stage in protecting the best interests of children in the divorce process. Proper management of parental rights, the child’s needs and legal processes ensures that the child grows up healthy. Receiving professional legal and psychological support contributes to the fair and effective conduct of the process.