The courts in Pennsylvania recognize that fathers play a crucial role in raising children. The law of child custody has evolved so that there is no longer a preference for awarding custody to the mother over the father.
A judge may award a father shared custody or even sole custody. Fathers also have legal custody, which allows them to share in decision-making regarding the child’s life.
Father’s custody rights
In Pennsylvania, the court reviews many factors to determine who should get custody of a minor child. The court examines all factors to choose an arrangement in the child’s best interest. Under any custody arrangement, a father has the right to abide by the terms of the order. This means that the father can spend time with the child as designated without interference or harassment from the child’s mother. If the child’s mother does not abide by the arrangement, the father can petition the court for further relief.
Legal custody options
In addition to physical custody, a custody arrangement will involve legal custody. Legal custody is usually shared by both parents listed on the birth certificate. A shared legal custody arrangement gives the father the right to information regarding the child’s life, including anything involving the child’s welfare. Legal custody also provides the father with the right to participate in decisions regarding a child’s medical treatment, religious exposure and education.
Fathers have the right to spend time with their children and take part in raising them. The courts in Pennsylvania will recognize these rights.