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Unfit Parents and Child Custody Disputes

Posted by Joseph D. Lento | Aug 31, 2019 | 0 Comments

Divorce is hard, to say the least. But when children are involved, things get much more difficult. Sit in on any New Jersey child custody proceeding and you'll almost always see a nasty mudslinging fight fraught with allegations and character assaults. Each parent and their representation wants to “win” by discrediting the other, and when one or both parents' fitness comes into question, the stakes get high.

Most New Jersey courts begin proceedings with the belief that each child is happiest when they get to spend ample time with both parents. But whether a custody and visitation schedule that reflects this ideal can be enforced hinges on the circumstances. If one or both parents are attempting to prove that the other is “unfit,” the outcome can be devastating.

Defining an “Unfit Parent” in New Jersey 

According to New Jersey law, an unfit parent is one who is incapable of providing a safe and nurturing environment for their child. Furthermore, this parent's inability to maintain a trusted environment may but put the child at risk of physical, emotional, or psychological harm. Although each case will be evaluated based on its unique circumstances, there are a number of grounds for finding a parent unfit. They may include:

  • A history of dangerous, violent, or reckless behavior
  • Mental health issues
  • Issues with substance abuse and/or addiction
  • Prior issues that involve, child abuse, neglect, endangerment, etc.

As straightforward as these grounds may seem, many judges find themselves presiding over cases where there are many “gray” areas that make identifying a potentially harmful situation or parent tough. Also, the court requires there to be sufficient evidence of such grounds before deeming a parent unfit. Solid evidence of the unfitness of a parent may be a medical exam that indicates a pattern of abuse, a psychological evaluation, drug and alcohol screenings, domestic violent reports, or any other proof that one or both parents have an issue that would jeopardize the welfare of their child. 

Once the court determines a parent is unfit, what happens next? Well, it is likely that this characterization will impact the custody agreement. Most unfit parents are granted reduced or no parenting time, but this isn't always the case. Some judges may see it necessary to let an unfit parent visit their child under supervision.

Unfit parents also tend to lose legal custody of their children. This means that they can't make major decisions on behalf of their child. If you feel like you've been unfairly stripped of your parental rights, it's best you contact an attorney. 

New Jersey Family Law Attorney

In child custody disputes where you are accused of being unfit, the representation of a seasoned legal professional is required. Navigating the New Jersey legal process without legal advice is risky. And with so much at stake, you need the assistance of someone who can turn the odds in your favor.

Attorney Joseph D. Lento of the Lento Law Firm has helped parents facing accusations of unfitness prove that they're worthy of being in their child's life. Schedule a consultation today online or by phone at 888-535-3686.

About the Author

Joseph D. Lento

"I pride myself on having heart and driving hard to get results!" Attorney Joseph D. Lento is a veteran of one of the nation's busiest family courts with nearly 20 years' experience passionately helping families. By day, he worked in the trenches of family court, and at night, he studied the law. He helped countless families while working at family court, and he went on to become an attorney, dedicating his law practice to continuing the work he started years earlier. Mr. Lento's experience both behind the scenes and on the front lines allows him to understand a client's family law matter from all angles, and allows him to find and employ the most effective strategies to get favorable outcomes for any client. Joseph D. Lento is licensed in New Jersey and New York, and is admitted pro hac vice as needed nationwide. In the courtroom and in life, attorney Joseph D. Lento stands up when the bell rings! He does not settle for the easiest outcome, and instead prioritizes his clients' needs and protects their interests.

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Attorney Joseph D. Lento has more than a decade of experience practicing Family Law in New Jersey. If you are having any uncertainties about what the future may hold for you and your family, contact our offices today. Family Law Attorney Joseph Lento will go above and beyond the needs for any client and fight for what is fair.

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