St. Charles Divorce Law Blog

Missouri parents would likely agree that each parent-child relationship is different. In an age where parents are aware of the far-reaching extent of child abuse across the nation, many fear that the regular scrapes, bumps and bruises that children get from time to time may be mistaken by onlookers as a sign of physical abuse in the home. Recently, parents who suffer from conditions that have rendered them blind or deaf have spoken out, saying they feel they are often singled out in these situations, and they fear their handicap can lead to a change in child custody. 

Many Missouri parents say their fears are not unfounded, and they can provide recent examples in which a parent lost custody of his or her child based on an assumption that their disability prevents them from being a good parent. They argue that many of the methods used by courts and social workers to determine appropriate child custody are based on the relationships seeing and hearing parents have with their children. A blind parent who cannot see a bruise on his or her child may not be aware others suspect abuse. A deaf parent who cannot hear his or her child cry or call for help may be looked upon as incapable. 

Brad Pitt is no stranger to the big screen. The famous actor has starred in many movies over the years, earning his spot as a Hollywood icon. Frequently seen at star-studded events, Pitt has become a tabloid favorite, even more so in light of his recent legal woes. Pitt stands as a reminder that even the rich and famous must endure the struggles and stress that can come from divorce and child custody issues. 

Many people may not be aware that Pitt is a Missouri native. He worked his way to fame and fortune over the course of several decades. Years ago, when he wed actress Angelina Jolie, it seemed as if a happy ending was on the horizon. Unfortunately, the couple's marriage ended, and now the stars find themselves embroiled in a bitter child custody dispute. 

Missouri parents are probably aware that, if they fail to make timely child support payments, they can face serious legal consequences. Most would probably say they do their best to pay the proper amount on time. Unfortunately, there is always room for human error, and sometimes, the government entities responsible for processing child support payments make mistakes.

One Missouri father recently found himself in an inconvenient situation due to a mistake by the government concerning his child support payments. He was unaware there was any trouble at all until he went to get his passport ready for a family vacation. He was informed that he could not get his passport because he was behind on his child support payments. The man insisted that he was current with his payments and could not fathom why he would be denied. 

Missouri parents may have seen the recent news stories pertaining to changes in rules about media cameras in courtrooms. The law now allows more media cameras to be present during certain court proceedings. At first glance, parents with upcoming child custody appearances may feel nervous about the changes. 

There is no need to fear, however, as the new law prohibits the use of cameras in child custody cases, and many other cases where children are present or involved. Families have a right to privacy where their children are concerned. Going to court can be a nerve-wracking experience, and Missouri has taken steps to ensure that the privacy of children is protected in a court of law.