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In the context of Quebec, where out-of-court settlements are promoted in marital dissolutions, this article examines the role of lawyers in the legal formulation of parental demands in cases involving children (custody, child support). Interactions between lawyers and clients reproduce gender stereotypes of parental roles. With the principle of joint parenthood, fathers are encouraged to make their rights prevail, under the condition that they play the role of breadwinner. Mothers are encouraged to be mindful of their duties, especially joint parenthood. The valorization of the father’s role loses steam when fathers are missing and without legal representation while mothers living in economic insecurity care for their children by themselves.