Unlike the rights a non-custodial parent would get here in an Orange County or Los Angeles County court system, Japan's custody laws are vastly different. In Japan, 100% custody is typically awarded to the mother, even in divorces involving Japanese parents. It is most certainly the custody battle from hell -- a battle that's impossible for a father to win.
This is precisely the case involving Christopher Savoie, whose ex-wife, Noriko took their two children from the United States to her home in Japan eight months ago in violation of a Tennessee court order. Because Japanese law gives sole custody to the mother and does not recognize international treaties upholding parental custody rights, Savoie may never see his two children until they are adults.
In the past 10 years, Savoie said, 231 children have been abducted from America to Japan. Since 1952, when Japan returned to self-governance after World War II, no child taken to the county by its Japanese mother has ever returned.
"Japan hasn't returned one child -- ever," Savoie said.
While the House resolution has no force of law, Savoie hopes that Japan will update its laws if sufficient pressure is put on the government.
These international custody battles are becoming more and more prevalant. I previously blogged about Orange County's Andrew Ko here. Regardless, if you are facing an imminent custody battle, contact a reputable Orange County attorney to learn more about your rights.
