Battle For Father’s Rights In Iowa

Proposed Bill Would Force Joint Custody To Be Default

Legislation has passed the Iowa State House that would make the default assumption in child custody cases that both parents will receive joint physical custody rights.

Supporters of the measure say that is makes child custody battles more equitable, and helps children who are currently seeing very little of their fathers. The bill cites statistics showing that over 80 percent of custody cases end with the mother receiving custodial rights, while the father receives only visitation rights. This disparity, they argue, is unfair to both men and women.

The bill passed the Iowa House by a vote of 69-26, with a strong show of support from the Republican controlled legislature. The measure is still a ways from becoming law, however, as it needs to be approved by the members of the Senate Judiciary Committee in order to move on to Senate voting. The deadline for this approval process is the end of the week, and several members of the committee have publicly voiced doubts about the measure.

Debate Continues Over Father’s Rights Issues

One Democratic senator has voiced concerns over the bill, saying that when fathers don’t receive joint physical custody it is usually because they don’t deserve it. By being a better parent, he told reporters, a father will avoid losing custody. He fears that the bill will make it more difficult for good parents to take custody away from abusive or dangerous spouses.

Socially conservative group the Family Leader is a supporter of the bill. Though they wish that parents would not have to get divorced in the first place, the group wrote in a newsletter, they feel that the legislation will help children see more of their fathers.

Get Help From A Child Custody Attorney

If you are undergoing a divorce and need help fighting for custody of your child, a Des Moines family law attorney can help! James McGuire has served the Iowa community for many years, handling all manner of complex cases, and has built a legacy of excellence in the courtroom. With our firm’s expertise on your side, we can help you protect your custodial rights.

Please, contact a Des Moines child custody lawyer today for a free consultation!