How Could a Mother Lose Custody of Her Child in Bergen County?
All custody matters are complicated and emotional affairs. The prospect of losing custody or even visitation rights is scary. There are many ways a mother could lose custody of her children in Bergen County, but with the help of a qualified mother’s rights attorney, you may stand a better chance of protecting the special bond you have with your son or daughter. If you are afraid that your children will be taken from you, consult with an experienced and dedicated attorney right away to learn more about your legal options.
Neglectful Behavior
One of the primary ways a mother could lose custody in Bergen County is if the court determines that the mother’s behavior was neglectful. If there is substance abuse and the child is exposed to those hazards, it may be legally considered neglect. If a child is not of a suitable age to be left alone but a parent leaves them with no caretaker, that mother may be considered neglectful.
Additionally, if there is any failure to attend to a child’s medical needs, clothing, feeding, and schooling, the mother may be in trouble and found to be neglectful. In many cases of alleged neglect, the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency (DCPP) will get involved. This organization was formerly known as the Department of Youth and Family Services (DYFS).
When families are dealing with issues of this magnitude, the Division or the state will often get involved and file an action to adjudicate. This is not always necessarily done in the context of a divorce or a custody action. It may then be elevated into a DCPP action.
The court will only look at the circumstances and the available concrete proof. This may involve a psychiatric evaluation or testimony by a mental health professional or custody evaluator to determine what is in the best interest of the child and how that affects a mother’s responsibilities.
A Bergen County Attorney Could Help You Fight to Keep Custody of Your Kids
The main resource a mother could use to prevent losing custody would be a good attorney. Experienced Lawyers could explain what the mother should be doing, what kind of proof will be needed, and what behaviors must be avoided. There are many pitfalls that could lead to a DCPP investigation or case, and the situation is even more complicated if you are getting divorced.
There are many ways a mother could lose custody in Bergen County, and to adequately protect yourself and your family, it is essential that you work with a local attorney who has experience handling mother’s rights issues. With a dedicated legal ally at your side, you can truly fight with everything you have to stay in your child’s life. Your family deserves the best, so call right away to get started on your case.
