The legal landscape surrounding the custody and welfare of minors in Pakistan has long been a subject of contention, particularly regarding the rights of fathers. In the vast majority of cases, fathers are granted limited access to their children, typically only fortnightly visits. This arrangement, while rooted in traditional legal practices, often fails to recognize the evolving role of fathers in the lives of their children. At Saeed & Moeez Law Firm, we believe that this approach is not only outdated but also unjust, failing to serve the best interests of the child.
The Problem with Fortnightly Visits
The current legal framework generally views the mother as the primary caregiver, with the father’s role often reduced to that of a financial provider. This perspective is reflected in custody arrangements where fathers are typically allowed to see their children only once every two weeks. While this may have been the norm in the past, it does not reflect the realities of modern parenting, where fathers are increasingly involved in the day-to-day lives of their children.
Fortnightly visits, while better than no contact, can be incredibly restrictive and emotionally distressing for both the father and the child. These limited interactions can prevent fathers from forming strong, meaningful relationships with their children, which are crucial for the child’s emotional and psychological development. The assumption that a father’s primary role is to provide financially is not only reductive but also harmful. Fathers are not just “cash machines”; they are caregivers, role models, and essential figures in their children’s lives.
The Case for Shared Parenting
Shared parenting is a concept that has gained traction globally, advocating for both parents to play an active and equitable role in raising their children. This model acknowledges that children benefit from having regular, meaningful contact with both parents, and that both mothers and fathers have valuable contributions to make to their child’s upbringing.
In jurisdictions where shared parenting is practiced, children typically spend a more balanced amount of time with each parent, rather than the limited fortnightly visits commonly granted to fathers. This arrangement allows for a more holistic development of the child, ensuring that they receive love, guidance, and support from both parents.
Saeed & Moeez: Championing Fathers’ Rights
At Saeed & Moeez Law Firm, we are committed to challenging the status quo and advocating for fathers’ rights in custody matters. We believe that every child deserves the love and support of both parents and that fathers should not be relegated to the periphery of their children’s lives.
Our firm has successfully represented fathers seeking more substantial access to their children, beyond the standard fortnightly visits. We understand that every family’s situation is unique, and we tailor our legal strategies to meet the specific needs of our clients. Whether it’s securing more frequent visitation, advocating for at-home visits, or pushing for a shared parenting arrangement, we work tirelessly to ensure that fathers’ rights are recognized and upheld.
Moving Forward: A Call for Legal Reform
The current custody laws in Pakistan are in dire need of reform. It is essential that the legal system evolves to reflect the changing dynamics of modern families, where fathers play an integral role in their children’s lives. By advocating for shared parenting and more equitable custody arrangements, we can help create a legal framework that truly serves the best interests of the child.
At Saeed & Moeez, we are proud to be at the forefront of this movement, fighting for the rights of fathers and ensuring that they have the opportunity to build meaningful, lasting relationships with their children. If you are a father facing custody challenges, we invite you to contact us to discuss how we can help secure your rights and protect your relationship with your children.
