What Is An Unfit Parent?

Child custody disputes are among the most challenging parts of a divorce. Bitterness during a divorce can cause one parent to be more critical about how their former spouse is raising a child. However, what happens when a parent is truly unfit to be caring for a child? At Flowers Law Group, our attorney is here to help you protect your child’s best interests throughout divorce proceedings. Continue reading to discover more about how an unfit parent is defined. 

What is an Unfit Parent?

The relationship between a child and parent comes with certain fundamental responsibilities and rights. After all, the parent is responsible for the very life of their child. Most parents are able to meet their responsibilities with parenting practices, but not everyone is fit to be a parent. In any issues involving child custody, the courts always look to the child’s best interests. During the custody proceedings, the judge should have considered numerous factors, including evidence of serious problems on the parent’s part. Every child deserves a safe home. When one parent is unfit, the child’s best interests are not being met. Some of the behaviors of an unfit parent include:

• Neglect – Also referred to as “abuse by omission,” neglect can include failure to provide adequate shelter, nutrition, clothing, and supervision. Physical, educational, and emotional neglect are all behaviors of an unfit parent that are harmful to a child’s well-being. 
• Abuse – Evidence of physical, emotional, sexual, or verbal abuse renders a parent unfit. 
• Substance Abuse – Drug use or alcoholism jeopardize a child’s safety. If a parent is found to abuse substances, they are less likely to be granted custody. 
• Mental Illness – If a parent suffers from a severe mental illness that could harm the child’s welfare, they may be declared unfit. It’s important to note that not all mental health challenges will result in one parent being declared unfit. However, if they are not receiving treatment and the child is suffering, it will directly impact your case. 

Contact Us

Are you concerned that you may be declared an unfit parent and lose custody of your child? If so, our experienced family lawyer at Flowers Law Group is here to help. Our family law attorney will work with you to advocate a favorable solution in your child’s best interest. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!