Parents Can Learn Some Important Lessons from Lebanon Kidnapping Case

 Posted on November 01, 2016 in Child Custody

Divorce and custody issues are complex, often contentious, and sometimes extremely messy and heartbreaking. The Lebanon kidnapping case, in which a mom had custody of her children, let them visit their father, who then never returned the children, is a prime example. What can parents going through divorce currently take away from this case? Some rather important lessons.

Trust Your Instincts

The mother, who had been awarded full custody of the children, had reservations about sending the children to another country to spend time with their father. In one interview, she even mentioned that the father had done something in the past to warrant concern. If you have an instinctual feeling that something may be "off," talk to your family law attorney before proceeding. They can help you understand the laws, your obligations, and your rights as a parent.

Two Wrongs Do Not Make a Right

Though the mother had been granted full custody by the Australian courts, she reportedly failed to pursue legal channels to get her children back. She allegedly failed to submit a copy of the custody agreement to the Lebanese government, which may have given her a way to legally bring her children home. Instead, she attempted to "kidnap" them back, which then ultimately resulted in her trading her freedom for the right to custody of her children. If you are facing a contentious situation, do not attempt to take the law into your own hands. Instead, pursue the legal avenue and protect yourself and your children from the adverse effects of a misstep in a custody case.

Shield Your Children from the Public Eye

Family law cases are already traumatic for everyone involved, but they can be especially difficult on children. Protect them from the public eye and avoid posting anything about your family law case on social media. To do otherwise could make your children feel even more in the middle of the fight between parents. Worse yet, it could ultimately cause harm to your case.

Heed the Advice of Your Attorney

Prior to the attempt to re-kidnap the children back, the mother had allegedly been advised by her attorney to pursue legal options instead. Yet, rather than follow her attorney's advice, she tried to take matters into her own hands. It is understandable, wanting to fight for your children, but when your attorney gives you advice, they are only trying to protect your interests, and the interest of your children. So, even when the advice is hard to accept, you should heed their warning. At the very least, get a second opinion before you take action that could jeopardize your case.

At Stock, Carlson & Asso. LLC, we aggressively protect the interests of our clients and their children. Dedicated and backed by more than 40 years of experience, we can walk you through the complexities of your family law or divorce case. Call and schedule your consultation with our Wheaton family law attorneys to learn more. Call 630-665-2500 today.

Sources:

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3552759/60-Minutes-mother-Sally-Faulkner-makes-tragic-tearful-farewell-two-children.html

http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/sally-faulkner-book-all-for-my-children-raises-family-law-questions-lawyer-20161021-gs88d2.html