Parents with Psychiatric disorders

No parent is perfect. And no one can help it if they suffer from some psychological disorder. However, when it comes to parenting, mental health does play a role regarding the issue of child custody. In other words, a parent with a psychological disorder would find it hard to be a child’s primary care giver, if the child would best be cared for by the other parent. This is assuming that the other parent in this case is capable of caring for the child. This article is connected to the topic Child Custody and Visitation Court Applications. It may be useful to read up on it before proceeding to read further. Otherwise, read on to find out more about parental child abuse and the legal aspects surrounding it.

When should you consult with a lawyer?

Seeing that you are dealing with parental rights and responsibilities, it is best to first try to resolve issues with the other parent. If that does not work, then try mediation. Should that still not work, see a lawyer who would advise you on what would be best for you and your child. If need be, a Court application would have to be launched.

What about a psychological evaluation of a parent?

It often happens that a parent would accuse the other parent of having a mental, or psychiatric problem. The most common psychological condition in our legal practice, in relation to child custody matters, are bo-polar and schizophrenia. These conditions can be managed by medication. However, if the patient fails to use the treatment prescribed, the consequences could be detrimental to parenting. Therefore, one should consider the possibility of the psychological condition manifesting itself in an unfortunate situation. In most cases, the Court would want to hear from medical experts.

An example of psychological disorder in relation to parenting

In one case, a mother has been diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) by a psychiatrist. She had an excessive fear of germs and dirt and the compulsion to repeatedly wash and clean herself, and items she uses, to ward off dirt and germs. She also has a compulsion to avoid possible contaminants in her daily life. For example, she would not touch anything unless she is convinced it is clean. The father of their child was of the view that the mother’s problem detrimentally affected their family daily life, and the well-being of their child. According to him, her condition has caused him to care for the child from when he came from work until when he left to work the next day, as well as the entire weekend.

Prescription medication

The mother used prescription medication for her condition. It was Leximil, which is an anti-depressant, and Zyprexa which is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These medications make her want to sleep during the day and for prolonged periods during the evening. It also made her very lethargic. She cannot wake up to attend to the child during the evening at all as she was in a very deep sleep. She also struggled to get out of bed in the mornings.

Psychotic behavior

The mother further displayed psychotic behaviour in that she tried to stab the father and told him afterwards it was not her in that it was another persona inside of her who was responsible. She also believed that spirits spoke to her and guided her.

The Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Overpowers her

The mother’s condition causes her mind to focus on the OCD and it over powers her and she has a disregard for those surrounding her. She was totally incapable of taking care of the minor child during the day, let alone during the evenings. To give an example, she would wash a used glass for about 30 times with detergents and put it away, and then her mind will tell her it is not clean, and then she will wash it again another 30 times, again with detergents. In the process, she would use a half a bottle of washing liquid. Thereafter, she would go to the bathroom and wash her hands for about 20 minutes. She would soap her hands, wash off the soap and do it again until her mind is satisfied. She utilises about 2 to 4 bars of soap a day. Packaged food would be left to become expired as she would believe it is contaminated.

Neglect of Hygiene

Other than neglecting the minor child when she is busy with her rituals, she would also not want to attend to her as it would cause her to “dirty” herself. For example, if a child had to dirty her dyper, the mother would have to weigh the issues of cleaning the child and dirtying her hands and spending a long period of time washing herself afterwards. She would then just leave the child the way she is and not touch her for fear of contamination. The same would apply to making food, which would mean cleaning afterwards. If an unknown third party touches her child, the mother’s brain would tell her that the child has been contaminated and her clothes and bodies need to be washed immediately.

Wastage by the mother

Furthermore, until the child is washed, no one can touch her. And anything the child touches becomes contaminated in the mind of the Mother and needs to be washed. Another example was when the mother filled up the kettle, and emptying it about 30 times and then be convinced that it is full, boil the water and then start all over again with filling up the kettle and emptying it. She would leave the child to her own demise whilst the OCD’s consumes her. This is very dangerous for the child. She needs to shower a few times a day, which she does for long periods at a time. This would cause her to wash until there is no longer hot water, and then continue washing when the water is hot again. The mother’s OCD therefore causes her to neglect the minor child when in her care and all her focus is on her compulsions. If the OCD becomes too much, she would resort to sleeping and deal with the challenges later. Her entire day would be consumed by the OCD.

How would this affect the father’s rights of custody?

Considering the example above, should the parents separate, there is as strong possibility that the father be made the minor child’s primary care giver. This would be in her best interests.

Sharing is Caring

This and other articles and posts found on this website are written by Adv. Muhammad Abduroaf to assist people with various family law related issues they may have. If you find any of our articles, free resources and posts interesting, or possibly useful to others, please like and share it on Social Media by clicking on the icons below. For more interesting articles and information on Family Law, view our articles and Q&A page. If you have a family law related legal issue and you want someone to answer or reply to it, feel free to post it on our Family Law Blog. Therefore, kindly like and share. Should you require any other legal services and advice, not related to family law, visit Private Legal.    
Posted on by Telelaw

Parents with Psychiatric disorders

No parent is perfect. And no one can help it if they suffer from some psychological disorder. However, when it comes to parenting, mental health does play a role regarding the issue of child custody. In other words, a parent with a psychological disorder would find it hard to be a child’s primary care giver, if the child would best be cared for by the other parent. This is assuming that the other parent in this case is capable of caring for the child.

This article is connected to the topic Child Custody and Visitation Court Applications. It may be useful to read up on it before proceeding to read further. Otherwise, read on to find out more about parental child abuse and the legal aspects surrounding it.

When should you consult with a lawyer?

Seeing that you are dealing with parental rights and responsibilities, it is best to first try to resolve issues with the other parent. If that does not work, then try mediation. Should that still not work, see a lawyer who would advise you on what would be best for you and your child. If need be, a Court application would have to be launched.

What about a psychological evaluation of a parent?

It often happens that a parent would accuse the other parent of having a mental, or psychiatric problem. The most common psychological condition in our legal practice, in relation to child custody matters, are bo-polar and schizophrenia. These conditions can be managed by medication. However, if the patient fails to use the treatment prescribed, the consequences could be detrimental to parenting. Therefore, one should consider the possibility of the psychological condition manifesting itself in an unfortunate situation. In most cases, the Court would want to hear from medical experts.

An example of psychological disorder in relation to parenting

In one case, a mother has been diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) by a psychiatrist. She had an excessive fear of germs and dirt and the compulsion to repeatedly wash and clean herself, and items she uses, to ward off dirt and germs. She also has a compulsion to avoid possible contaminants in her daily life. For example, she would not touch anything unless she is convinced it is clean.

The father of their child was of the view that the mother’s problem detrimentally affected their family daily life, and the well-being of their child. According to him, her condition has caused him to care for the child from when he came from work until when he left to work the next day, as well as the entire weekend.

Prescription medication

The mother used prescription medication for her condition. It was Leximil, which is an anti-depressant, and Zyprexa which is used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. These medications make her want to sleep during the day and for prolonged periods during the evening. It also made her very lethargic. She cannot wake up to attend to the child during the evening at all as she was in a very deep sleep. She also struggled to get out of bed in the mornings.

Psychotic behavior

The mother further displayed psychotic behaviour in that she tried to stab the father and told him afterwards it was not her in that it was another persona inside of her who was responsible. She also believed that spirits spoke to her and guided her.

The Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Overpowers her

The mother’s condition causes her mind to focus on the OCD and it over powers her and she has a disregard for those surrounding her. She was totally incapable of taking care of the minor child during the day, let alone during the evenings. To give an example, she would wash a used glass for about 30 times with detergents and put it away, and then her mind will tell her it is not clean, and then she will wash it again another 30 times, again with detergents. In the process, she would use a half a bottle of washing liquid.

Thereafter, she would go to the bathroom and wash her hands for about 20 minutes. She would soap her hands, wash off the soap and do it again until her mind is satisfied. She utilises about 2 to 4 bars of soap a day. Packaged food would be left to become expired as she would believe it is contaminated.

Neglect of Hygiene

Other than neglecting the minor child when she is busy with her rituals, she would also not want to attend to her as it would cause her to “dirty” herself. For example, if a child had to dirty her dyper, the mother would have to weigh the issues of cleaning the child and dirtying her hands and spending a long period of time washing herself afterwards. She would then just leave the child the way she is and not touch her for fear of contamination.

The same would apply to making food, which would mean cleaning afterwards. If an unknown third party touches her child, the mother’s brain would tell her that the child has been contaminated and her clothes and bodies need to be washed immediately.

Wastage by the mother

Furthermore, until the child is washed, no one can touch her. And anything the child touches becomes contaminated in the mind of the Mother and needs to be washed. Another example was when the mother filled up the kettle, and emptying it about 30 times and then be convinced that it is full, boil the water and then start all over again with filling up the kettle and emptying it.

She would leave the child to her own demise whilst the OCD’s consumes her. This is very dangerous for the child. She needs to shower a few times a day, which she does for long periods at a time. This would cause her to wash until there is no longer hot water, and then continue washing when the water is hot again.

The mother’s OCD therefore causes her to neglect the minor child when in her care and all her focus is on her compulsions. If the OCD becomes too much, she would resort to sleeping and deal with the challenges later. Her entire day would be consumed by the OCD.

How would this affect the father’s rights of custody?

Considering the example above, should the parents separate, there is as strong possibility that the father be made the minor child’s primary care giver. This would be in her best interests.

Sharing is Caring

This and other articles and posts found on this website are written by Adv. Muhammad Abduroaf to assist people with various family law related issues they may have. If you find any of our articles, free resources and posts interesting, or possibly useful to others, please like and share it on Social Media by clicking on the icons below. For more interesting articles and information on Family Law, view our articles and Q&A page. If you have a family law related legal issue and you want someone to answer or reply to it, feel free to post it on our Family Law Blog. Therefore, kindly like and share.

Should you require any other legal services and advice, not related to family law, visit Private Legal.

 

 

Related Post

38 Relocation with my minor child to Thailand, Pattaya (Consent and Refusal) – Advocate Muhammad Abduroaf The world is becoming a much smaller place, and technology plays a huge role. People are moving across the world for employment, love and happiness, something that was not the norm a few decades ago. There is no reason why you should remain in South Africa if you can find a better life for yourself and your family overseas. Moving overseas may provide you with the quality of life you want or the possibility of experiencing things you always wanted. The same applies to your child or children relocating with you. Relocation of your minor child to Pattaya, Thailand If you are single and do not have any minor children, then moving around the world would not be too complicated. All you need to do is ensure that you have the necessary travel documentation and travel ticket (and spending money), and off you go. However, if you want to travel with your minor children (for example, ages seven or eight) or relocate to another country, things may not be that simple. Firstly, if there is another parent, and he or she has parental responsibilities and rights, then his or her consent is required. For example, let us say you live in Johannesburg or Ulundi, South Africa, and you want to relocate to Pattaya, Thailand, you would require the other parent’s consent to leave South Africa with your minor child. This can cause challenges, especially if the staying parent (in South Africa) does not agree to the relocation. What about Passport Consent to travel or relocate to Pattaya, Thailand? The same applies when it comes to your minor child applying for a South African passport to relocate to Thailand, or any country. Both parents who have parental responsibilities and rights of guardianship will have to consent to the minor child’s passport application as well. In this regard, both parents have to be at the Department of Home Affairs (or the relevant bank that also assists with passport application) when making the Application with the minor child. This can be challenging if you have a disinterested parent who does not want to cooperate with the passport application. As you will see later, legal action would need to be taken. What are the steps to follow when I want to relocate to Pattaya, Thailand with my minor child? There is there another parent. To simplify the process for relocation, the first step would be to receive the other parent’s consent in principle for the relocation and that he or she will co-operate in this regard. Once that has been resolved, the parent relocating would need to make the appointment for the minor child’s passport application as well as the application for the relevant VISA. Each country has different requirements; however, seeing that it is a relocation, you need to apply for the correct VISA. For that, you need the Passport. Once the visa and travel arrangements have been finalised, the parent remaining behind will sign a parental consent letter for the international travel. That letter can be found on the Department of Home Affairs website. Basically, the parent remaining behind would state that he or she gives consent for the minor child to leave the Republic of South Africa and travel and/or relocate to Pattaya, Thailand. What can I do if the other parent does not want to consent to the minor child’s relocation to Pattaya, Thailand? If the parent remaining in South Africa does not want to consent to the minor child’s passport application and/or his or her relocation to Pattaya, Thailand, then you would need to approach the Court. The Court, as upper guardian of the minor child, may order that the parent’s consent for the passport application and relocation be dispensed with. What this entails is submitting Court documents explaining why you want to relocate to Pattaya, Thailand. The other parent would also have an opportunity to give reasons why he or she objects. At the end of the process, the Court would determine what is in the minor child’s best interests. If it is in the minor child’s best interests to relocate to Pattaya, Thailand, the Court would make it possible despite the issue of consent or refusal. What is the first step I should take if the other parent does not want to consent to the minor child’s passport application and/or relocation to Pattaya, Thailand? If the other parent does not want to consent to the passport application and/or the relocation of the minor child to Pattaya, Thailand – in that case, we suggest you approach an attorney or advocate (trust account) to assist you with the legal process. He or she would then contact the other parent explaining the reasons for the relocation and request the necessary consent. If the parent remaining in South Africa does still not agree to the passport application and/or to the relocation to Pattaya, Thailand, then the attorney or advocate will proceed to take the matter to court. The legal route can be expensive. However, it is necessary to make the relocation of the minor child possible. You may also attend to the legal process yourself. Getting legal assistance or help with your relocation application to Pattaya, Thailand If you require legal assistance or representation with relocating to Pattaya, Thailand due to the other parent not cooperating or providing consent, then feel free to contact us for assistance. The Firm Advocate, Muhammad Abduroaf, deals with these types of matters.

Posted on by Telelaw

Family Law is specialised field of law. It is always best to obtain the services of the best lawyer for your matter – Cape Town

What follows are some questions regaring family law lawyers, costs and procedures and guidlines.

At what age can a child refuse to see a parent in South Africa?

In South Africa, there is no specific legal age at which a child can categorically refuse to see a parent. However, the courts typically consider a child’s wishes regarding contact with a parent more seriously as they get older. General Guidelines:
  1. Age of Maturity: Generally, around the age of 12, children’s views are given greater weight in custody and contact decisions. However, this does not mean they can unilaterally decide to refuse contact.
  2. Best Interests of the Child: The primary consideration in family law is the best interests of the child. If a child expresses a desire not to see a parent, the reasons behind this wish will be evaluated.
  3. Professional Input: Courts may involve child psychologists or social workers to assess the situation and the child’s perspective.
Ultimately, while a child’s wishes are important, the decision regarding contact will depend on the overall circumstances and the court’s assessment of what is in the child’s best interests.

What do I do if I do not have money to afford the services of an attorney?

If you can’t afford an attorney in South Africa, there are several options available to you:
  1. Legal Aid South Africa: This government agency provides free legal assistance to those who qualify based on income and the type of legal issue. You can visit their website or contact a local office for more information.
  2. Pro Bono Services: Many attorneys offer pro bono (free) services for those in need. You can check with local law firms, bar associations, or platforms like ProBono.org to find lawyers willing to take on your case.
  3. Legal Clinics: Universities often have legal aid clinics staffed by law students under the supervision of qualified attorneys. These clinics can provide free legal advice and assistance.
  4. Community Organizations: Some NGOs and community organizations offer legal assistance or can help connect you with pro bono lawyers.
  5. Self-Representation: If your case is straightforward, you might consider representing yourself. Many courts have resources and guides to help individuals navigate the legal system.
  6. Payment Plans: If you find an attorney who is willing to help but you can’t afford their fees upfront, ask if they offer payment plans or sliding scale fees based on your income.
Make sure to explore these options as soon as possible, as legal issues often have time constraints.

Is an advocate higher than a lawyer?

The terms “advocate” and “lawyer” can have different meanings depending on the legal system in question. Generally, a lawyer is a broad term that refers to anyone who is qualified to practice law, while an advocate often specifically refers to a lawyer who represents clients in court. In some countries, an advocate may hold a higher or more specialized status, focusing on courtroom representation and litigation. In others, the terms might be used interchangeably. It really depends on the jurisdiction and its legal definitions!

Which type of lawyer gets paid the most in South Africa?

In South Africa, corporate lawyers typically earn the highest salaries, particularly those working for large law firms or in-house at major corporations. Other high-paying specialties include:
  1. Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A): Lawyers involved in high-value transactions can command significant fees.
  2. Tax Law: Experts in tax law are often sought after for their specialized knowledge.
  3. Litigation: Senior litigators, especially those with a strong track record, can also earn substantial salaries.
Compensation can vary widely based on experience, location, and the specific firm or company.

What are South African lawyers called?

In South Africa, lawyers are generally referred to as “attorneys.” Those who represent clients in court are specifically called “advocates.” The legal profession in South Africa is divided into these two main categories: attorneys handle legal matters and client relationships, while advocates primarily focus on litigation and courtroom representation. This distinction is similar to the barrister/solicitor system found in some other countries.

How much can a lawyer charge for a case in South Africa?

In South Africa, lawyer fees can vary significantly based on several factors, including the type of case, the lawyer’s experience, and the complexity of the matter. Generally, lawyers may charge:
  1. Hourly Rates: These can range from about R1,000 to R5,000 or more per hour, depending on the lawyer’s experience and specialization.
  2. Fixed Fees: For certain types of cases, such as drafting wills or conveyancing, lawyers might offer fixed fees.
  3. Contingency Fees: In some civil cases, lawyers may work on a contingency basis, charging a percentage (often around 25% to 35%) of the settlement amount.
  4. Retainer Fees: Some lawyers require a retainer, which is an upfront fee that covers initial legal services.
It’s always best for clients to discuss fees upfront and clarify any potential costs associated with their case.

How much is the expert witness fee in South Africa?

In South Africa, expert witness fees can vary widely depending on the expert’s qualifications, experience, and the complexity of the case. Generally, expert witnesses might charge:
  1. Hourly Rates: These can range from R1,000 to R5,000 or more per hour, depending on the field of expertise and the expert’s reputation.
  2. Daily Rates: Some experts may charge a flat daily rate, which could be anywhere from R5,000 to R20,000 or higher.
  3. Preparation Fees: Experts may also charge for time spent preparing reports or consultations, which is often billed separately.
It’s important for clients to discuss and agree on fees in advance to avoid any misunderstandings later on.

Who pays for advocates in South Africa?

In South Africa, the party that hires an advocate typically pays their fees. Here are some common scenarios:
  1. Private Clients: If an individual or business hires an advocate directly, they are responsible for covering the advocate’s fees.
  2. Attorneys: Advocates are usually retained by attorneys on behalf of their clients. In this case, the client pays the attorney, who then pays the advocate.
  3. Legal Aid: If a client qualifies for legal aid, the legal aid organization may cover the advocate’s fees.
  4. Costs Orders: In some cases, if a party wins a case, the court may order the losing party to pay the legal costs, including the advocate’s fees, as part of the judgment.
It’s essential for clients to clarify fee arrangements in advance, regardless of the scenario.

How much child maintenance should a father pay in South Africa?

In South Africa, child maintenance amounts are not set by a fixed formula but depend on various factors, including the needs of the child and the financial capabilities of the parents. Key considerations include:
  1. Income of Both Parents: The combined income of both parents is considered to determine what is reasonable for the non-custodial parent to contribute.
  2. Child’s Needs: This includes costs for food, clothing, education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.
  3. Living Arrangements: The living situation of both parents and the child can also influence maintenance amounts.
  4. Court Orders or Agreements: Maintenance amounts can be determined through a court order or a mutual agreement between parents.
While there’s no specific amount prescribed, some guidelines suggest that maintenance could range from 10% to 25% of the non-custodial parent’s net income, but this is just a general guideline and can vary widely. It’s advisable to consult a legal professional or mediator for a more tailored assessment based on individual circumstances.

What happens if a father cannot pay maintenance?

If a father in South Africa cannot pay child maintenance, several potential consequences and options may arise:
  1. Legal Consequences: Failing to pay maintenance can lead to legal action. The custodial parent can apply to the court for enforcement of the maintenance order, which might result in a garnishee order to deduct payments directly from the father’s salary.
  2. Modification of the Order: If a father genuinely cannot pay due to a change in circumstances (like job loss or reduced income), he can apply to the court to modify the maintenance order. This requires providing evidence of the changed financial situation.
  3. Criminal Charges: In some cases, willful neglect to pay maintenance can lead to criminal charges, including fines or imprisonment.
  4. Negotiation: It may be possible for the father to negotiate a temporary reduction in payments with the custodial parent, ideally formalized in writing or through a court order.
  5. Support Services: Seeking assistance from legal aid or social services can provide additional support and guidance on managing child maintenance issues.
It’s important for fathers facing financial difficulties to communicate openly and seek legal advice to navigate the situation appropriately.

What rights does a father have in South Africa?

In South Africa, fathers have several important rights regarding their children, particularly in matters of custody, access, and maintenance. Key rights include:
  1. Parental Rights: Fathers have the right to make decisions about their child’s upbringing, including education, health care, and religious upbringing, especially if they are married to the child’s mother or have legal acknowledgment of paternity.
  2. Custody and Access: Fathers can apply for custody or visitation rights if they are separated from the child’s mother. The courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making such determinations.
  3. Child Maintenance: Fathers have the right to request that the mother contributes to child maintenance, especially if they are the primary caregiver.
  4. Legal Representation: Fathers have the right to seek legal representation in matters relating to their children, including custody disputes and maintenance claims.
  5. Participation in Major Decisions: Fathers should be involved in significant decisions affecting their child’s life, such as schooling or medical treatment.
  6. Protection Against Unreasonable Actions: Fathers can seek legal recourse if they believe the mother is acting unreasonably regarding access or other parental rights.

How to get full custody of a child as a mother in South Africa?

To seek full custody of a child as a mother in South Africa, you’ll need to follow specific steps, keeping in mind that the court prioritizes the best interests of the child. Here’s a general outline of the process:
  1. Understand Types of Custody: Familiarize yourself with the different types of custody—sole custody (full custody) and joint custody. Full custody means you have the exclusive right to make decisions regarding the child’s upbringing.
  2. Gather Evidence: Collect evidence that supports your case for full custody. This may include:
    • Documentation of the child’s living conditions.
    • Records of the child’s needs (educational, medical, emotional).
    • Evidence of your involvement in the child’s life.
    • Any instances of unfit parenting by the other parent (if applicable).
  3. Legal Advice: Consult a family lawyer who specializes in custody matters. They can help you understand your rights, prepare your case, and navigate the legal process.
  4. File an Application: Submit an application to the Family Court for custody. This typically involves:
    • Completing the necessary court forms.
    • Including your evidence and reasons for seeking full custody.
    • Paying any applicable court fees.
    1. Attend Mediation: Courts often encourage mediation to resolve custody disputes amicably. Be prepared to discuss your preferences and the child’s best interests.
    2. Court Hearing: If mediation fails, a court hearing will be scheduled. During this time:
      • Present your case, including evidence and any witnesses who can support your claim.
      • The other parent will have an opportunity to present their case as well.
    3. Best Interests of the Child: The court will consider various factors to determine the best interests of the child, including:
      • The emotional and developmental needs of the child.
      • The child’s relationship with both parents.
      • Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs.
    4. Receive the Court Order: After the hearing, the court will make a decision and issue a custody order. If awarded full custody, you’ll have the legal authority to make decisions about the child’s life.
    5. Ongoing Compliance: Ensure compliance with the court order and maintain open communication with the other parent regarding the child’s welfare.
    It’s essential to remain focused on the child’s best interests throughout the process. Legal advice is crucial to effectively navigate the complexities of custody cases.

Posted on by Telelaw

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