Divorced Couples In Japan Can Now Share Custody Of Their Children

Divorced couples in Japan can now share custody of their children.

Previously, Japan did not recognize the legal concept of joint custody and usually granted custody to only one parent, usually the mother.

That parent then had the power to cut off the other parent’s access to their children, according to the BBC.

Under the new law, a court can now decide to grant sole or joint custody to divorcing couples.

Parents whose divorce have already been finalized can also have their previous custody arrangement reviewed by a court.

The law, which brings Japan in line with other G7 countries, calls on parents to respect each other’s positions and cooperate “in the best interests of their child”.

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