On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Thursday, June 11, 2020.
As an unusual school year draws to a close, Missouri families are looking forward to summer vacation, and parents try to think of ways to keep kids entertained. Water activities, special treats or maybe even a trip might be on the horizon. No matter what’s on the schedule, parents should ensure that they make healthy choices for their kids and be aware that, sometimes, health issues can affect child custody.
Family law attorneys see a wide variety of reasons listed when a parent files for a modification of child custody. Recently, a father sued a mother for primary custody of a young boy because the mother, who was medically classified as morbidly obese, was allowing the young boy to eat a lot of junk food. The boy’s weight became a health concern as he became severely overweight himself.
While a custody suit over weight gain may sound petty or unkind, the father attested that he was very concerned that his son was too young to understand the consequences of chronic unhealthy food choices. Doctors confirmed that the boy could face serious health issues often associated with being overweight. Diabetes, cardiac disorders and physical limitations are common results of childhood obesity.
If a Missouri parent has a valid concern about his or her child, he or she may want to reach out to an attorney that has experience handling child custody cases. An attorney can help a client use the legal system to establish, change or enforce a custody order. If a child’s primary living situation has become a legitimate health risk, the court may decide in favor of the other parent for the sake of the child’s well-being and future.
