Still in the planning stages

Child Custody Law to Be Overhauled

There are currently 1,643 custody cases pending in the courts of Upper Austria.(Bild: FOTOKERSCHI / WERNER KERSCHBAUMMAYR)

Divorces are often followed by long and intense legal battles. Most disputes center on money, but they also involve the couple’s children. Partly because fathers are often unable to see their children for years on end, a reform is finally in the works.

A father from Upper Austria was denied contact with his son by his ex-wife exactly 44 times over the course of more than a year—and there were no consequences for the woman. Countless others affected by this issue have contacted the “Krone” since we reported on the case. They all face similar problems and, in some cases, have to fight in court for several years to be allowed to see their children after a separation.