Separation and Shared Custody: Commentary on the Ruling Cass. No. 15815/2022

The ruling No. 15815 of 2022 by the Court of Cassation represents an important decision regarding the separation of spouses and custody of children. The Court, confirming previous decisions, reiterated the fundamental principle of shared custody, emphasizing that this should be the rule unless there are elements that justify an exception. This article aims to analyze the main aspects of this ruling, clarifying its meaning and implications for separated parents.

The Context of the Ruling

The Court of Appeals of Catania had established, in the contested ruling, shared custody of the children, with placement at the mother's residence and the father's right to visitation. The appellant, C.F., challenged this decision, complaining about the lack of examination of the father's contribution to maintenance and the denial of exclusive custody.

Regarding child custody, shared custody is the rule, while exclusive custody must be justified by evident reasons of harm to the minor.

The Grounds for the Appeal and the Court's Decision

C.F. presented three grounds for appeal, all deemed inadmissible by the Court of Cassation. The Court emphasized that the first and second grounds concern merits already evaluated by the lower courts. Furthermore, the Court reiterated that the evaluation of the parent cannot be based solely on economic non-compliance, but must take into account the overall parental attitude. The third ground, related to the apparent reasoning of the ruling, was rejected as the Court found the reasoning clear and adequate.

Legal Principles at Stake

The Court of Cassation referred to the principles established by the legislation and jurisprudence, particularly Article 337 ter of the Civil Code, which provides for shared custody as the general rule. It is essential that any exceptions are justified by solid reasons, in line with the best interests of the minors. Ruling No. 6536 of 2019 was cited to reaffirm that exclusive custody must be supported by concrete evidence of the unsuitability of the non-custodial parent.

  • Shared custody as the general rule
  • Need for solid justifications for exclusive custody
  • Overall evaluation of parental behavior

Conclusions

Ruling No. 15815/2022 by the Court of Cassation offers an important reflection on the delicacy of separation proceedings and the importance of ensuring the best interests of the children. It reaffirms the necessity of shared parenting between parents, highlighting that decisions must always be oriented to preserve the bond between the parent and the child, avoiding compromising the minor's interest. In a context of increasing attention to the protection of children's rights, this ruling represents an important step towards a jurisprudence that is ever more attentive and aware.

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