Two weekends a month and two to four weeks during the summer - this is the current standard that many noncustodial parents face when a Missouri divorce is finalized. In some cases, this is actually more that the parent will take advantage of. However, in many instances, the noncustodial parent strives to remain a part of the child's life yet finds it difficult to do so with such limited time constraints. More often than not, it is the father who faces these constraints, and this is causing some to raise concerns regarding fathers' rights as they relate to custody issues.
Fathers' rights a concern for one Missouri group
Some people try to take equitable division into their own hands
In all matters of divorce in Missouri and throughout the nation, the court has the final say regarding any type of settlement, agreement, child custody, visitation or property division issue. In some situations, that's no big deal, and spouses merely formulate their agreed upon plans ahead of time, then seek the court's approval. Other times, however (espe
cially when it comes to the equitable division process), problems arise that prompt concerned spouses to seek outside support.
Is minor emancipation a good or bad idea?
In order to sign legally binding contracts, make financial or medical decisions and do other things adults normally do, a person must first reach the age of majority. In most states, including Missouri, that age is 18. In certain circumstances, however, a parent or legal guardian may abdicate rights of authority over a minor, thus granting that child the right to make his or her own legal decisions in life. Whether minor emancipation is possible, or even a good idea, typically depends on individual circumstances.
Janet Jackson facing parenting plan battle in divorce
There's no telling how many Missouri residents will file for divorce this year. Some studies suggest the number of divorces is declining throughout the nation; however, many spouses are still choosing it as the most viable option for resolving their differences. If a couple who divorces has a child together, such as in superstar Janet Jackson's case, it often opens up a whole new set of challenges. One common topic of discussion usually involves a new parenting plan.
