Gone are the days when divorcing fathers in Indiana and elsewhere could automatically expect courts to award full custody of children to their mother. As the fathers’ rights movement of the past several decades has become more and more visible, it has also advanced the case for shared custody, and today’s family court decisions reflect these ongoing societal changes. That does not mean that shared custody is a given, however. Fathers still need to assert their interests, and their rights, in remaining a part of their children’s lives.
Verywell Family explains that, despite a general perception that men are not interested in parenting, fathers do indeed want to remain active in parenting their children following divorce. They want to be present and teach them responsibility, life skills and help encourage their children as they move toward adulthood. There are several organizations that soon-to-be ex-husbands can tap into for support, education and help developing co-parenting plans.
The Fathers’ Rights Movement
Taking its name from the movement itself, this organization’s aims to educate the general public, as well as courts, about the value of fathers in society. The group asserts that children with both parents are less likely to:
- Commit crimes
- Run away from home
- Drop out of school
- Commit suicide
- Become pregnant
- Abuse drugs and alcohol
- Be involved in abusive relationships
The FRM has chapters throughout the U.S. and overseas and offers educational resources on state procedures, child support and more. You can get involved with rallies or volunteer opportunities and stay updated on related news from the group website.
Fathers 4 Kids
Fathers can learn more about their visitation rights, how to establish paternity and take advantage of office services and more for members of Fathers 4 Kids. This group is also known as Fathers for Equal Rights and offers free notary services as well as low-cost DNA testing and other benefits.
American Coalition for Fathers and Children
The American Coalition for Fathers and Children supports co-parenting and works with organizations throughout the country to raise awareness about the need for both parents in a child’s life. The nonprofit organization also works to influence family law legislation in favor of equal rights for both parents.
Children’s Rights Council
The Children’s Rights Council advocates for involvement from both parents in child-rearing. It promotes regular interactions between children and non-custodial parents with a focus is on serving the best interests of children. The council has a chapter in each state that typically offer a variety of services, including domestic training, monitored exchanges and visitations with children, family counseling, mediation and more.
The information in this article is general in nature and should not be considered legal advice.
