• 03
  • September
    2010

One of the simple realities of divorce is that couples will have disagreements. Whether these disagreements involve the division of property, the payment of spousal support or child custody/visitation arrangements, they can be the source of great stress, frustration and even anger.

What happens when this frustration or anger causes one of the parties to take dramatic and perhaps even illegal action?

According to the State Department, there were 1,135 reported cases of international child abduction in 2009, up from 642 reported cases in 2006.

Today's post will briefly explore international child custody battles/international child abduction. Specifically, why these situations occur and why there has been such a significant increase in the number of reported international abductions.

The Cause Behind Many International Child Custody Battles

Spouses from different cultural backgrounds often have drastically different views when it comes to parenting. However, these differences may not be entirely evident as the spouses work together to raise a child/children. Simply put, spouses may make certain concessions in the name of peaceful co-existence and a happy family life.

However, when a couple divorces, there is no more need for a spouse to make such concessions and they are able to fully assert their views regarding parenting. Unfortunately, this situation can create further animosity among the spouses and result in bitter custody battles.

Sometimes, the situation devolves to such a degree that one spouse actually takes the child/children back to their native country without permission, resulting in charges of international child abduction and an eventual legal quagmire.

The Cause Behind Many International Child Abductions

Why then has there been such a dramatic increase in the number of international child abductions/custody battles?

The rise in international child abductions/custody battles can be somewhat attributed to a rise in the number of international relationships. According to experts, the creation of international relationships has been facilitated by three factors: increased foreign travel, increased military operations abroad and increased immigration.

According to executive director of Child Find of America, Donna Linder, when parents from different countries come together to start a relationship and raise children, it can result in major "cultural differences that people may not be willing to compromise on."

If you fear that your former spouse may flee the country with your child or you would like to learn more about international child custody, you should consider speaking with an experienced attorney.

The following post is provided for informational purposes only and is not to be construed as legal advice. Be sure to contact a legal professional if you have questions or concerns regarding child custody.

Stay tuned for more from our Tarrant County divorce blog ...

Related Resources:
  
• Sharp Rise in International Parental Kidnapping Cases (The Washington Examiner)