We are often used to seeing men in fancy dress suits standing on the top of buildings protesting on behalf of the 'Fathers 4 Justice' movement. This is a group who campaign to ensure that 'all children have a meaningful, loving relationship with their fathers'. Matt O'Connor, the founder of Fathers 4 Justice, has said 'every day 200 children will lose contact with their father and other family members in secret Family Courts'.
There is a public perception that men are not as successful as women when applying to secure access to their children in the Family Court.
However, a report produced jointly by the University of Warwick and the University of Reading has found that men are treated fairly when trying to secure access to the children in the Family Court.
The researchers studied 200 cases since 2011 and concluded that men are 'overwhelmingly successful' in securing contact applications with their children. One of the reports co-authors said, 'Whilst it is true that mothers were usually the primary care giver in contact applications, this was simply a reflection of the social reality that women are more likely to take on the role after a relationship breakdown, but there was actually no indication of any bias towards mothers over fathers by the Courts'.
It is fair to say that this research has been criticised on the basis that a sample of 200 cases is a relatively small figure in comparison with the total number of Court applications.
Applying for contact with your children following divorce or separation is a stressful and complex process and to ensure that you have the greatest chance of success, whether you are a mother or a father, you are advised to seek specialist legal input.
To discuss this or other family related matters, please contact us.
Internet link: Nuffield Foundation