Child custody is often one of the most hotly contested aspects of any divorce, but contrary to common beliefs even teenaged children can become caught in the crossfire. The child custody dispute between pop superstar Madonna and ex-husband, Guy Ritchie, has recently heated up in the High Court of England. Despite divorcing in 2008, the couple continues to fight over custody of their 15-year-old son, Rocco.
Specifically, Madonna and Guy Ritchie cannot reach an agreement on whether Rocco should complete his schooling in the United Kingdom – where Ritchie resides – or in the United States, where Madonna maintains a primary residence. Rocco was on tour with his mother while simultaneously enrolled in a Manhattan private school before a December 2015 visit to the UK allegedly derailed his studies. Upon staying with his father in London, Rocco reportedly expressed disinterest in returning to the United States, according to Madonna.
Guy Ritchie maintains that Rocco has since been enrolled in school in London. New York Supreme Court, First Judicial District Judge Deborah Kaplan earlier this month ruled that Rocco can remain a student abroad but refused to rescind her earlier order that Guy Ritchie must return his son to the United States. At a hearing before the High Court of England, Judge Alistair MacDonald joined with Judge Kaplan in urging the estranged couple to set their differences aside for the sake of their son.
Longstanding child custody agreements that have been honored for a decade or more can be jeopardized once a child reaches an age to voice a preference for one parent over another. When those same parents reside in different countries, a refusal to return to the home of a custodial parent can invoke international law and lead to prolonged absences between a parent and child. Towson divorce lawyers note that whenever a former spouse voices their intent to live abroad, both parties must strive to honor their custody agreements and immediately seek relief in court if and when an agreement is violated.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Enforce Child Custody Agreements
The child custody dispute between Madonna and Guy Ritchie highlights the need for parents to reach common ground, particularly where teenaged children are concerned. If you or a loved one has reason to believe that a preexisting child custody agreement has been violated, contact our Towson divorce lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles LLC. We represent clients in all phases of divorce, and can help enforce a child custody agreement in your favor. From our Hunt Valley, Pikesville and Towson, Maryland offices we represent divorcing clients throughout Baltimore County, Harford County, Carroll County and Howard County, including Towson, Essex, Columbia and Bel Air. Call us today to schedule your free confidential consultation. We can be reached at 443-589-0150 or complete our online contact form.
