One of the greatest fears that California divorced parents have is that a non-custodial parent will attempt to take their child away on a trip and not return. When that parent has foreign ties and goes to another country, the fear of an abduction is even higher, and the process of obtaining the child's safe return can become more difficult.
International child abductions
Fathers still struggle in family courts
California fathers who are granted joint legal custody as part of a divorce order may find that even then, the reality of the situation is that mothers block their access to children. In one man's case, his ex-wife told him she did not have to inform him of the schedule for their child's school functions and doctor's appointments even though he had a court order stating he had the right to attend. Fathers who do manage to get to these types of meetings may find that their input is shunted aside in favor of the mother's.
Changing laws and attitudes on cohabitation: 3 things to note
Californians are used to being ahead of the curve. An indirect reminder of this came last week, when Florida finally repealed a law that had made cohabitation by an unmarried couple a crime.
Summer vacation and sharing parental responsibilities
California parents who are divorced know that the end of school and the beginning of summer vacation may bring its own problems when it comes to sharing time with the children. Planned cooperation ahead of time may make a difference in whether summer vacation with the kids goes smoothly or not.
Child custody and prolonging divorce
Getting a divorce is difficult for most California couples, leaving many to spend long periods of time thinking about whether to follow through when they are unhappy in their marriages. It makes good sense for people to take their time making their minds up. When it gets to the point that a spouse moves out and a couple separates, it may be a good idea to not prolong filing when they have young children.
