The Legal Practices and Challenges of Parental Authority, Custody, and Child Welfare Protection in Divorce Cases Under German Family Law

Abstract

This paper examines the intricacies and challenges inherent in the German legal system’s approach to parental authority, custody, and child welfare within the context of divorce proceedings. Grounded in the principles of the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), the review explores the commendable commitment of German family law to the welfare and best interests of children during the tumultuous process of divorce. Through a critical lens, it delves into the dynamic interplay between joint and sole custody arrangements, the pivotal role of children’s voices in judicial decisions, and the enforcement of custody and visitation rights. Additionally, the paper scrutinizes the complex landscape of international custody disputes, emphasizing the necessity for nuanced interpretation and application of the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction. Comparative analysis with international norms, particularly the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, unveils areas of alignment and divergence, spotlighting opportunities for enhancing cross-border cooperation and ensuring a child-centered approach in custody disputes. Proposals for reform are articulated, advocating for structured mechanisms to integrate children’s perspectives, standardized assessments of the child’s best interest, and strategies for the effective enforcement of custody orders. Emphasizing the importance of domestic reforms and international collaboration, the review argues for ongoing evaluation and adaptation of legal practices to better protect children’s interests amid evolving family dynamics and global challenges.