Everything You Need to Know About International Child Abuse
Being in the situation where a partner has taken your child to another country can be stressful enough, but it can be made much, much worse if you have reason to believe that your child may be coming to harm in their care. International child abuse cases can often be quite difficult and extremely stressful, especially if you have little or no contact with the child. A common example of this type of case is a violent partner who has fled the country, taking your child with them. Getting custody in the case of international child abduction by a partner can be difficult, however if abuse is suspected it may be easier to get your child back.
Report to the Authorities
The first thing that you should do on discovering that an abusive partner or ex partner has fled the country with your child is report it to the authorities. If you have records of your partner/ex partner being abusive towards either you or the child in the past, your case with undoubtedly be stronger. If you have never reported any abuse before, now is the time that you must. Going straight to the police can help you ensure that you get the best assistance in returning your child safely to you and dealing with your partner accordingly.
Get a Lawyer
You will also most likely need to get legal help in the case of international child abduction by a partner, and definitely if abuse is involved. The country where your partner or ex partner has fled to can sometimes cause problems, therefore if they have gone to a non-extradition country it may be more difficult for you to get your child back home, even if the partner has a history of abuse or violence. Getting the help of an international child custody lawyer from a law firm such as Ideal Legal Group as soon as possible can help you to build a strong case against your partner or ex partner quickly. They will also be able to offer advice and assistance on the type of trial or custody hearing which you can expect to attend, and which country it will need to be held in.
Your Child
In most cases, the parent at home will win in the case of parental international child abduction where abuse is suspected. However, there are some things which could lessen the chances of this happening, for example if your child has extended family in the country which they have been taken to, or if they are a witness to a crime in that country. Whatever happens, maintaining your relationship with your child is crucial. If possible you should speak to them often, whether it be over the phone or by sending letters and gifts. Being taken to another country can often be a confusing experience for a child, and they need to be reassured that the parent left back home has not abandoned them. However, you should never discuss the case with your child.
There are many ways in which you can get your child back from a partner or ex partner who has taken them abroad. Don’t suffer in silence, get help as soon as you can.
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