Q: I have recordings proving abuse & negligence by my baby's father. Can I use this to keep him away from her/protect her?
He recently got a domestic charge (3rd degree) with another woman (called in by his neighbors). I spoke to a previous girlfriend as well & both tell me horrible things he's done to them (text).
He put our infant daughter in danger many times & screamed at her, tossed her onto the couch, neglected her, "shoved" her at me, etc (all between 0-2m) so I stopped allowing him to hold/care for her but he'd come after me while I was holding her. Hes violent, unstable, drinks heavily & does drugs (marijuana, cocaine & more). I couldn't call the police because he would hurt me to get my phone. He recently took her to some string lights & let her chew on them (at 6m old).
I feel like I have to allow him visitation because I can't afford an attorney & don't know who to talk to. He's forcing us to come to his house alone & harasses me.
He sends abt $130/m & thinks that's fair but I'd give up any support to ensure her safety.
What rights do I have as her mother?
A: You have all the rights. Do not let him bully you into seeing her and possibly hurting her. You do not have to let him see her and it is bad for you if you do, knowing what he does. Go to DHR and sign up for child support. They do not do visitation nor custody. He will have to get a lawyer to get that, and when he does, show the judge all of the recordings and evidence that you have. Good luck!
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