Traditional gender roles are changing when it comes to parenting, but more progress can be made. The traditional role of the mother as primary care-giver still persists, even if it is not always the case when parents’ divorce. Fathers are held to lower expectations when it comes to parenting, even if they want to be more involved. The long-held assumption that fathers should provide financial support while mothers provide physical and emotional support needs to be challenged. When it comes to co-parenting, decisions should be made on a case by case basis, as every family is entirely unique.
While gender assumptions in the eyes of the law are evolving, fathers are still praised for the slightest involvement in their children’s lives. Fathers who want to pursue custody rights often come up against the assumption that a mother will receive primary custody. Traditionally, fathers were not expected to be as immersed in the child’s daily routine. Meals, sporting activities, homework, and doctor’s appointments are often relegated to the mother, even if the father is willing and capable to handle them. Fathers battle harder for access to their children, especially in more acrimonious divorces.
Mothers face their own gender role assumptions when it comes to co-parenting. Even if a mother works full-time, she is often responsible for the majority of the day-to-day practical duties like schoolwork, home repairs, and transportation to after-school activities. Mothers are more likely to be afforded primary custody of children of divorce in New Jersey, regardless of paternal involvement.
For children to emerge from divorce secure and well-adjusted, the courts need to overcome outdated and downright detrimental parental gender roles. Both parents are capable of providing for children emotionally and financially. Fathers should expect to do dinners, doctor’s appointments, and carpools, while mothers should be expected to contribute income to the family. Skilled divorce lawyers advocate for ex-spouses who are in the process of resolving co-parenting issues. Overcoming parenting stereotypes is crucial to making fair and healthy decisions for the children of divorce in New Jersey.
If you are facing divorce in New Jersey and are concerned about your parental rights not being protected, a skilled team of Bridgewater divorce lawyers can help. Co-parenting is complicated and can be painful, but you can achieve a fair resolution for everyone involved. Contact our Somerset, New Jersey offices at 732-633-2224 or complete our online contact form to discuss your situation.
The Law Offices of Kisha M. Hebbon, LLC serves clients throughout New Jersey including Somerset County, Middlesex County, Union County and including but not limited to the towns of Somerset, Franklin, Bridgewater, New Brunswick, East Brunswick, Plainfield, Edison, Metuchen, Woodbridge, Piscataway, Old Bridge, Rahway, Linden, Elizabeth, Cranford, Summit, Union, Clark, Elizabeth, Berkeley Heights, and Scotch Plains.
