Family Law
- Marriage and Divorce: The rights and obligations of spouses during marriage and after divorce, marriage contracts.
- Alimony: How to properly determine the amount of alimony, the procedure for collection, what to do in case of non-payment, additional expenses for the child.
- Property Division Agreement: Consultations on the issue of dividing property acquired during marriage, preparation and conclusion of a property division agreement.
- Family Conflicts: Advice on resolving conflicts between spouses.
Parental Rights and Responsibilities: What Every Family Should Know
Being parents is not only a great joy but also a responsibility enshrined in law. Ukrainian laws, such as the Family Code and the Law on Child Protection, define the rights and duties of parents towards their children. This foundation helps ensure the harmonious development of children and contributes to their social adaptation. Let’s review the key obligations placed on each parent.
1. Parenting and Support – the Foundation of Harmonious Development
Parents are the first teachers, entrusted with an important mission. The law obliges them to raise children with respect for human rights, honesty, responsibility, and love for their country. This applies not only to moral education but also to the responsibility for physical health, education, and the development of skills that will serve as the foundation for successful independent living.
2. Equality in Parenting – the Right of Both Parents
Ukrainian legislation guarantees equal rights and obligations for both parents. This means that even in the case of divorce or separate living, each parent has the right to communicate with the child, participate in their upbringing, and make decisions regarding the child's life and development.
3. Material Support – an Obligation, Not a Choice
Parents are obligated to financially support their children until they reach adulthood or become able to work due to health reasons. If one of the parents refuses to fulfill this obligation, the other has the right to appeal to the court to protect the child’s rights. The alimony system exists to ensure that children can receive financial support, even if the parents live separately.
4. Protection of the Child’s Rights – More Than Just an Obligation
Each parent is the official representative of the child in legal matters. This allows parents to defend the child's rights and interests, for example, in matters related to inheritance, medical decisions, or education. This right is designed to ensure that the child receives everything necessary for a full life.
5. Responsibility for Negligence – Serious Consequences
Parental rights are not granted lightly and can be lost for serious violations. If parents neglect their duties, abuse the child, or create a threat to the child's life, the state has the right to revoke their parental rights. In severe cases, such parents may face criminal responsibility — from restrictions on freedom to imprisonment.
6. Chance for Restoration – the Path to Correction
Revoking parental rights is an extreme measure, but the law allows for the possibility of restoration if the parents' behavior improves. If parents prove they are capable of creating favorable conditions for the child's development, the court may restore their rights. Importantly, this opportunity is only available when it aligns with the best interests of the child.
Mutual Obligations of Parents and Children
It is important to remember that responsibility is a two-way process. Adult children also have an obligation to care for their parents when needed. In addition to material support, family relationship require moral support and mutual assistance.
Being parents is more than just a right. It is a daily effort aimed at creating a safe and harmonious environment for the child. By raising the next generation with love and responsibility, we lay the foundation for a strong and just country.