Child custody is one of the many obstacles parents have to overcome when they separate or divorce. The trouble is, when the divorce is contested, it often results in parents fighting over custody and how much is awarded to each individual. Sometimes, there are instances where the outcome of a child custody case may not favor the best interest of the child, hence, requiring a family law attorney to step in and rectify the situation.
In a case that recently surfaced, it was reported that a convicted sex offender was awarded parenting time and joint legal custody of his eight-year-old son. According to the State Court Administrative Office in Michigan, “joint legal custody means that parents share decision-making authority as to the important decisions affecting the welfare of the child.” The Detroit News highlighted aspects from this case that bring to light a potential issue that could arise in any child custody case and that is: One parent is awarded parenting privileges when they don’t exactly deserve them.
If you are planning on filing for child custody or are in the midst of a divorce battle where child custody is yet to be determined, let East Lansing child custody attorney Stuart R. Shafer represent you. The Law Offices of Stuart R. Shafer, P.C. works to ensure the rights of a parent are exercised and that your child isn’t placed in the hands of a parent who isn’t fit for the role.
Going back to the disturbing case that has been recognized as the first of its kind in the state of Michigan and possibly in the nation, we see why it is crucial for you to have a family law attorney working with you. In this particular case, the father, who has been identified as 27-year old Christopher Mirasolo, allegedly raped his son’s mother when she was only 12-years old. He was 18 at the time. As a result, Mirasolo not only avoided having to spend sufficient time in jail, but the 12-year old bore a child out of the rape.
After the DNA test established paternity of the child, a Michigan judge ordered that Mirasolo’s name be added to the child’s birth certificate, without the victim’s consent. The unidentified victim is seeking protection under the federal Rape Survivor Child Custody Act, however, as of right now, Mirasolo has been awarded some parenting privileges. Thankfully, the child custody lawyer representing the mother is working to have the decision overturned.
How can you protect your rights as a parent in a child custody case?
You can start by hiring a dedicated and well-established Lansing child custody lawyer. If you live in Dewitt, Charlotte, East Lansing, Grand Ledge, St. Johns, or Okemos, family law lawyer Stuart R. Shafer is available to take on your case and fight for a favorable outcome so that your child’s best interests aren’t compromised. Call 517-487-6603 to speak with an attorney or visit us at https://stushafer.com/.
