Protecting the Child's Rights in Custody Cases

Abstract

As divorce increases, the number of children affected increases. Legislation to protect the rights of children in custody cases is needed. Both the parents and the courts need assistance in appropriately weighting the factors that determine custody. Guidelines which reflect the level of the parents' legal involvement is advocated to protect the child's best interests: when parents choose mediation, a specialist in child custody is appointed to educate and assist in the decision-making process; when parents choose litigation, counsel is appointed to represent the child.