Primary physical custody means that one parent is more responsible than the other parent for caring for any child/children from the relationship. Naturally, this means that one parent will spend more time with the child/children than the other parent.

Secondly, Can a father get primary custody in PA? Pennsylvania Uses the “Best Interest of the Child” standard

Mothers and fathers are evaluated equally and are not favored based on gender. In the cases where the father proves to be the better primary custodian, the father is awarded primary custody.

How do I apply for primary custody in PA?

Keep in mind, some requirements may vary by case and county.

  1. Step 1: Decide whether to e-file. Many Pennsylvania counties let parents file electronically (known as e-filing). …
  2. Step 2: Fill out your paperwork. …
  3. Step 3: Finalize your paperwork. …
  4. Step 4: Open your case. …
  5. Step 5: Serve the other parent.

Similarly, How is child custody determined in Pennsylvania? To determine the custody arrangement that best serves a child’s needs, a judge will consider the following factors: each parent’s role in the day-to-day care of the child. the child’s need for stability in education, family, and community life. the child’s relationship with extended family.

Can a parent keep a child from the other parent in PA?

If there is no custody order, both parents have an equal right to custody, and either can lawfully take physical possession of the child at any time. However, taking the child away without the other parent’s consent can be held against you in court if that action was not reasonable.

At what age in PA can a child decide what parent to live with? A question that often comes up in a custody case is, at what age can a child decide with which parent they want to live? As most family law attorneys will tell you, legally, the age when a child can decide is 18. At this age they are no longer a child and subject to a custody action.

Who has custody of a child when the parents are not married in PA? Once a child is born in the state of Pennsylvania and the parents are unmarried, the mother’s rights are no different than if she were married. The mother has legal custody of the child no matter if she is married or unmarried in this state.

Is PA a mother State? If you and your child’s other parent are married at the time of the birth, Pennsylvania law assumes you are the mother and father. You do not have to take any additional steps to prove your biological and legal relationship to your child.

What do judges look for in child custody cases?

The child’s age, gender, characteristics and background will all be a factor in the decision process. The judge or magistrate will want to ensure that the child is safe from any possible harm and the parent has the ability to meet the child’s needs.

How long does a father have to be absent to lose his rights in PA? Involuntary Termination of Parental Rights

The parent shows a “sense of purpose” in relinquishing their parental rights, or has refused or failed to perform their duties for at least six months.

How do I prove I am a better parent in court?

Keep a file of the following records to prove that you are a great parent:

  1. Birth Certificate.
  2. Social Security Card.
  3. Academic Transcripts.
  4. Behavioral Reports.
  5. Awards and Certifications.
  6. Health Records.

What makes a parent unfit in PA? What makes a parent unfit in PA? Any records proving mental or physical condition that makes the parent incapable of providing care for their child as well as criminal charges and drug use count as strong evidence to show that the parent is not fit to be awarded the custody.

Is PA a mom State?

If you and your child’s other parent are married at the time of the birth, Pennsylvania law assumes you are the mother and father. You do not have to take any additional steps to prove your biological and legal relationship to your child.

Is PA a 50/50 custody State?

Pennsylvania allows for parents to share custody of a minor child after a divorce, and in some cases, that custody is split equally, 50/50.

How can a father lose custody in PA? Causes for Custody Denials

Abuse: The child is at risk for physical abuse, or the parents have a history of substance and alcohol abuse. Mental illness: Both parents have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness that prevents them properly caring for the child.

Are fathers entitled to 50/50 custody? Parents commonly choose 50/50 custody when they reach an agreement, and it can also be ordered by a court following trial, if appropriate.

How can a narcissist win custody?

How Do You Win a Custody Case Against a Narcissist? Follow These 9 Steps

  1. #1 Remember That You Are Dealing With a Narcissist. …
  2. #2 Take Note of Everything That Happens. …
  3. #3 Stop or Limit Communication. …
  4. #4 Contact Law Enforcement. …
  5. #6 Ensure Your Physical Safety. …
  6. #8 Continue Being Dependable. …
  7. #9 Secure the Right Attorney. …
  8. Stay Calm.

At what age can a child refuse visitation in Pennsylvania? At What Age Can My Child Refuse Visitation? Contrary to popular belief, there is no specific age at which a child can refuse to see a parent or comply with a custody order. In fact, Pennsylvania law defines a “child” as an unemancipated individual under 18 years of age.

Can a father give up his rights to avoid child support in PA?

However, you should note that voluntary termination of parental rights must usually coincide with an adoption of the children by another parent — a party cannot terminate his or her custodial rights simply to avoid a child support obligation.

Does signing over parental rights stop child support in Pennsylvania? It is important to understand that a voluntary termination of parental rights would also terminate any support obligation on the part of the terminating parent. Parental rights can generally only be dissolved as part of a pending adoption case because there is a strong public policy not to leave a child parentless.

What is an unstable parent?

In California, an unfit parent is a parent who, through their conduct, fails to provide proper guidance, care, or support to their children. This can include not only a parent’s actions but also a home environment where abuse, neglect, or substance abuse is present.

Why do courts favor mothers? A mother is typically the one to feed the child from birth through the toddler years and that closeness allows for a different kind of bond than a father might have with a child. Mothers are more likely to take more time off work or stay home entirely with their child than fathers.

What rights does a father have in PA?

Dedicated Legal Representation for Fathers’ Custody and Child Support Rights. Pennsylvania requires that fathers be treated the same as mothers in all divorce matters including child custody, child support, property division, and alimony.

What is the average child support payment in PA? The monthly child support amount is $1,729, per the child support guidelines, therefore, father’s obligation is approximately $1,037.


Don’t forget to share this post !