Imprisonment can impact child support, visitations and child custody for the parent that ends up in jail. In this case, the other parent can turn into the custodial parent briefly while the other parent is in jail or prison for the length of their sentence.
Parent of an Underage Child
Custody arrangements for a minor child may be influenced by existing agreements. Court intervention aims to determine the child’s best interests. In the absence of prior agreements, the non-custodial parent may assume custody. Incarceration can lead to the termination of parental rights, after which the courts may place the child with another suitable family member or the other living and fit parent.
Joint Responsibility when Parent is in jail
The imprisoned parent can’t have custody of a child while incarcerated. Nevertheless, even under these circumstances, the parents may share responsibility if the court doesn’t terminate the rights of the incarcerated parent. Specific issues may need consent from the individual that is incarcerated while others are no longer in their control. Despite that, the forthcoming release of that parent may also impact these situations. The custodial parent within their incarceration can petition the courts to discontinue the rights of the other because of their sentence.
The Significant Questions
When one parent is imprisoned, it’s important to get legal counsel to find the answers to the significant questions like who is going to get custody when the custodial parent is imprisoned. What occurs when the parent is no longer imprisoned can also impact the result of temporary custody. When an ex-spouse heads to jail or prison, visitation rights could be suspended until they are out. When the custodial parent doesn’t have any arrangements, the courts can award the non-custodial parent brief custody. Added factors usually depends on the charges filed and the conviction connected to the case.
Charges that can Impact Custody
If the custodial parent goes to jail or prison, the judge considers charges and convictions, alongside other factors. Serious crimes like murder, assault, sexual assault, and disorder may lead to parental rights termination, while other charges could affect visitation rights and future child custody decisions. The judge may determine that the non-incarcerated parent is a better fit due to the specific conviction and its nature.
Consultation with an Attorney When the Other Parent is in Jail
Some parents view the other parent’s incarceration as an opportunity to pursue custody if the free parent is deemed suitable by the judge. This can lead to temporary or permanent custody changes. If, after release, the parent remains a suitable fit and prioritizes the child’s best interests, the judge may uphold the existing arrangement.
More Severe Crimes
Serious charges like murder, disorderly conduct, battery, and white-collar crimes can lead to lengthy imprisonment. In such cases, family court may deem the parent unsuitable for child care, selecting an alternative guardian based on the crime and sentence. The court can issue a temporary order to determine the best caregiver for the child.
Legal Support During Incarceration
A parent facing an extended prison or jail sentence may need legal assistance to review custody arrangements and ensure a suitable guardian is designated. In the child’s best interests, the parent may have to transfer power and rights to the other parent.
Source:
- Child Custody When One Parent Is In Jail. Hg.org, www.hg.org/legal-articles/incarceration-how-does-it-affect-child-custody-52871.
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