It’s a sad reality, but fathers are often overlooked in our society. This is especially true when viewed through a child custody lens. Mothers automatically retain custody of children who are born out of wedlock and child custody disputes that arise during divorce proceedings can find a man struggling to prove why he is better suited to further his child’s best interests. Some men even find it difficult to merely obtain visitation with their children, which is nothing short of tragic.

As a result, many men choose to not pursue their fathers’ rights. This can have a profound impact on a child’s life, as studies have shown that a father’s presence can benefit a child in a number of ways. To start, children who have a father present in their life are less likely to drop out of school and become incarcerated. These children are also less likely to engage in risky behavior. Additionally, children with present and engaged fathers tend to have higher IQ scores and are better equipped to deal with psychological problems arise throughout their lives.

The benefits a child can receive from a father are nearly endless, but they can only be realized when these fathers are a consistent presence in these children’s lives. Although studies suggest that the quality of time spent with a father is most important, the quantity of time can also play a role. This is why fathers who want to play an important part of their children’s lives need to do everything they can to secure the right to adequate visitation.

Fathers aren’t always automatically treated fairly in the family law legal system. Although this is an unfortunate reality in many cases, it doesn’t have to be. Fathers can level the playing field by having a firm understanding of the law and how to utilize it to their advantage. Legal advocates who are experienced in fighting for fathers’ rights often prove helpful in this process, as they can help craft legal arguments that support a father’s interest to protect his relationship with his child.