U.S. Asks Japan to Resolve International Child Custody Issue

Ambassadors from the U.S. and several other countries are urging Japan to reconsider their current child custody laws and sign a global treaty on international child abductions.

Under Japan’s current laws, only one parent is awarded custody in a divorce, virtually cutting the other parent out of the child’s life until the child reaches adulthood. The U.S. and ambassadors from Australia, Canada, Britain, France, New Zealand, and Spain are asking the Japanese to allow foreign parents to visit their children when their children are brought to Japan from the their native country.

The issue garnered national attention last year when Christopher Savoie flew to Japan to get his two children back after his ex-wife took them from their home in Tennessee and brought them to her native Japan, despite a U.S. court order prohibiting such action. While Savoie was in Japan he was arrested for trying to take his children back to America. Why? Because Japan does not recognize U.S. child custody orders, and in their eyes the mother is the Savoie children’s rightful guardian.  

The ambassadors are now asking Japanese Foreign Minister Katsuya Okada to discuss the issue and sign the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction.  According to an article from the Associated Press, the Japanese foreign ministry is working towards a resolution.

If you are involved in a  child custody dispute, whether it be a domestic dispute or an international dispute, Riverside child law attorney Michael R. Young can help. Mr. Young has experience representing both parties in a custody dispute, and can ensure your rights and best interests are protected. To learn more, contact the Law Office of Michael R. Young today by calling (866) 902-5290.