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2 Answers | Asked in Child Custody, Divorce, Domestic Violence and Family Law for Texas on
Q: In Texas, can I remove my child from a dangerous environment (home of my ex-wife’s convicted felon BF)

During ex-wife’s periods of possession they stay at their home w/ BF overnight (not restricted in our div decree), or on weekends they stay with him at his home 250 miles away in DFW. My 10 y/o son just told me with certainty that the BF has been smoking marijuana around him in both homes and... View More

Sharita Blacknall
Sharita Blacknall
answered on Jun 23, 2024

If you believe your child is being abused, neglected, or exposed to harmful conduct due to your ex-wife's boyfriend's behavior, you should file for a modification of the custody order and request a temporary order. Present evidence of the boyfriend's drug use and criminal history.... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Child Custody, Divorce, Domestic Violence and Family Law for Texas on
Q: In Texas, can I remove my child from a dangerous environment (home of my ex-wife’s convicted felon BF)

During ex-wife’s periods of possession they stay at their home w/ BF overnight (not restricted in our div decree), or on weekends they stay with him at his home 250 miles away in DFW. My 10 y/o son just told me with certainty that the BF has been smoking marijuana around him in both homes and... View More

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Jun 21, 2024

Because you have an existing court order and a new case seeking primary custody, you need to file a motion for temporary orders or, if there is an imminent threat to your child, a motion for a TRO. The facts stated in your question do not justify your violation of an existing court order in my... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody, Civil Rights and Domestic Violence for Michigan on
Q: How do I have visitation revoked due to a history of substantiated CPS involvement for my children?

One situation was picked up by the state with criminal charges that were dismissed on the first day of trial due to the children and I not being present. (we were informed by Voices for Children the evening before that court was adjourned- this was untrue- court proceeded the following morning).... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 21, 2024

I understand you're in a difficult situation regarding visitation and child safety concerns. Here's some general information that may be helpful, but please note this isn't legal advice:

1. Document everything: Keep detailed records of any incidents, CPS involvement, and lack...
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1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Divorce and Family Law on
Q: Could a child be forced to live with a parent during custody battles even if they don't want to?

If the age of the child affects the weight of their decision, please specify.

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Jun 19, 2024

Yes. In most US states, a child becomes an adult who can make his or her own decisions about where to live when they turn 18 years of age. In most US states, where a child wants to live can be considered by a court. Different states allow a child to express in a written instrument filed with the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for Texas on
Q: I need know the proper form to file a writ of Habeas corpus in Victoria Texas

I filed the writ of habeas corpus and the order the judge did not sign it said it wasn’t in the proper form

John Michael Frick
John Michael Frick
answered on Jun 18, 2024

Assuming you are talking about a writ of habeas corpus to release an adult from jail as a result of a child support or child custody contempt proceeding, that would be Form 35-1 and 35-2 of the Texas Family Law Practice Manual.

You can purchase the Manual at...
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1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for Rhode Island on
Q: Hello -My divorce was finalized in 2019. Our daughter is going to be 12 this year and it is a joint custody agreement.

As part of the divorce, my ex-wife declared that our daughter couldn't stay overnight with me when there is an adult female there.

The divorce was long and drawn out over many years and I reluctantly agreed. This is now part of our divorce agreement.

I have been dating the... View More

Albin Moser
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answered on Jun 18, 2024

The challenge you face is that you agreed to what the agreement says and it is still enforceable against you. But the opportunity here is: what exactly does it say? Look at the wording. And, if the wording is really as disadvantageous as you say it is, then next: the agreement can always be... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Ex's attorney filed Prop FOAH without my knowledge and the Judge signed it.

We had hearing last week and the Court issued 4 page minute order regarding custody (very detailed) 2 days later. The judge ordered "The RP's counsel is to write Order after Hearing, serve it on the opposition for approval....etc". and I know the Court rule 5.125 and I was waiting... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 19, 2024

Based on the information you provided, it appears that your ex's attorney filed a Proposed Findings and Order After Hearing (FOAH) without your knowledge, and the judge signed it, even though the content of the proposed order was modified and differed from the court's minute order. In... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Ex's attorney filed Prop FOAH without my knowledge and the Judge signed it.

We had hearing last week and the Court issued 4 page minute order regarding custody (very detailed) 2 days later. The judge ordered "The RP's counsel is to write Order after Hearing, serve it on the opposition for approval....etc". and I know the Court rule 5.125 and I was waiting... View More

Tobie B. Waxman
Tobie B. Waxman
answered on Jun 18, 2024

Immediately file an objection to the proposed FOAH and specify in your objection, the grounds for the objection. Be very clear. Attach a copy of the minute order to your objection (assuming the minute order is different from the proposed FOAH). Since the FOAH has already been signed by the... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Domestic Violence and Family Law for California on
Q: I have a restraining order giving me full custody and 1 hour weekly supervised visits with an LMFT or LCSW.

The order was made January of last year and visits started in August I believe and they’re with a facility that does not employ either of the licensed workers the judge ordered. Do I need to continue visits or wait till he finds the right supervisor

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 17, 2024

In this situation, it's important to follow the specific terms of the restraining order and custody arrangement. If the court order explicitly states that the supervised visits must be with an LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) or LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker), and the... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: I would like to change my children's last name and file for sole custody due to parent abandonment.

The father is claiming he is homeless. I previously filed for child support and sole custody but I don't believe the filing was ever made official and put into effect. I would like to find out if proving parent abandonment automatically terminates the father's rights. I was previously... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 17, 2024

In California, proving parental abandonment does not automatically terminate the father's parental rights. Termination of parental rights is a separate legal process from seeking sole custody and changing your children's last name. Here's some information on each of these matters:... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: I would like to change my children's last name and file for sole custody due to parent abandonment.

The father is claiming he is homeless. I previously filed for child support and sole custody but I don't believe the filing was ever made official and put into effect. I would like to find out if proving parent abandonment automatically terminates the father's rights. I was previously... View More

Tobie B. Waxman
Tobie B. Waxman
answered on Jun 17, 2024

"I previously filed for child support and sole custody but I don't believe the filing was ever made official and put into effect" - filing a petition for custody and support, without filing anything else, will not result in you getting any court orders. Your case may still be open.... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for Florida on
Q: If you father a child with a married woman, who has been separated from said husband for years, what rights do you have?

The one who fathered the child has financially helped the Mother and child since birth. He has been getting her alternate weekends and a few hours every Tuesday and Thursday since she has been able to walk. She is mad at the father at the present and is withholding the child.

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber
answered on Jun 17, 2024

Legally, the man that the woman was married to at the time of the birth is the "legal father." This can be changed but you must take the mother to court on a paternity/ disestablishment of paternity case. You will need to include the man that she is/was married to in the lawsuit. Speak... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Child Support, Divorce and Family Law for California on
Q: Seeking Court Order for Child’s Screen Time and Sleep Schedule?

I am seeking advice on obtaining a court order for the following conditions concerning my 4-year-old autistic child due to concerns about my ex-spouse’s smartphone addiction. so, can I request these order below during the next RFOMOD custody hearing:

1) Limit exposure to mobile devices to... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 17, 2024

In California, courts make decisions about child custody and visitation based on the best interests of the child. When a child has special needs, such as autism, the court will consider those needs when making orders.

To request the specific orders you mentioned during a Request for Order...
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1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: In Florida, how likely would it be that an absent father would get custody and / or visitation? I need some legal advice

Sons dad resides in NY. My son & I reside in FL (son was born here) Sons dad has accused me of parental alienation since the birth of our child. He has always had a phone # to contact me & address. Ex has seen our 8 y/o son twice since he was born in 2015. I brought our son to NY in 2019... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber
answered on Jun 16, 2024

The legal standard in Florida is what is in the best interest of the child. If a parent has been absent for an extended period the court is not going to thrust them together. Reunification is possible but can be a lengthy process. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Custody for Florida on
Q: Do I have to follow me and my exs time sharing agreement even though she doesn't live in her documented state?

I have a time sharing custudy agreement. I also have residential custody of my son that is based out of his mother living in Pennsylvania but she hasn't lived there in years and now resides on the east coast of Florida. Nothing has been changed in the courts on her end. I also live in... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber
answered on Jun 16, 2024

Both of you are bound by whatever it says in your parenting plan. If you want to change the plan then you need to go back to court for a modification. As long as you are both following the parenting plan you can each live wherever you choose. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Court order for child's screen time/sleep due to co-parent's smartphone addiction?

We have 50/50 custody (3-4-4-3 schedule) of our 4-year-old child with my ex. I am deeply concerned about my ex's serious smartphone game addiction, which negatively impacts our child's sleep and overall well-being. Ex has promoted the child to play smartphone game for easier parenting for... View More

Tobie B. Waxman
Tobie B. Waxman
answered on Jun 16, 2024

There is no "device" you can use to monitor the child's sleep. You can get court orders however regarding a 4-year-old's use of a smart phone all together, regarding bedtime, and regarding bedtime routines, and regarding time spent on the smart phone whether playing games or... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: Court order for child's screen time/sleep due to co-parent's smartphone addiction?

We have 50/50 custody (3-4-4-3 schedule) of our 4-year-old child with my ex. I am deeply concerned about my ex's serious smartphone game addiction, which negatively impacts our child's sleep and overall well-being. Ex has promoted the child to play smartphone game for easier parenting for... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 16, 2024

Under California law, the court's primary concern in child custody cases is the best interests of the child. This includes ensuring that the child has a safe, stable, and nurturing environment, which can be negatively impacted by excessive screen time or inadequate sleep.

While there...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Landlord - Tenant for New York on
Q: My ex gf who i share a 10year old with wont leave my house for over a year n just damages home. How can i get her out?

Alls she does is drink12-14 beers a day, vandalized and damages my home. Leave child alone when i was at work alone to go drink with her new boyfriend. I have all on camera. How can i evict her asap without selling my house

David P. Badanes
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David P. Badanes
answered on Jun 15, 2024

If the child is being left alone, that is the first thing you might want to address. Some 10 year olds are mature enough to stay by themselves, but, I don't think many Judges would approve of that.

Next thing to do is consult with a Landlord-Tenant attorney. If the house is yours,...
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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Child Custody and Civil Rights for California on
Q: Can cps let a step grandparents visit my son without asking my permission or telling me?...
James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 14, 2024

Under California law, Child Protective Services (CPS) typically must inform and seek the permission of the child's legal guardians or parents before allowing visits from step-grandparents or any other relatives. However, the specific circumstances of your case may affect this requirement,... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Child Support for California on
Q: If I don’t show up for my court ordered parenting pick up what will happen?

Unfortunately my child mother is a very petty individual. I gave her a month notice that I’m going on vacation dates and times and she’s basically telling me no you need to be here. Vice versa whenever she’s had a vacation, I’ve gladly taken the kids during my non-parenting time. She has... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jun 13, 2024

Not showing up for a court-ordered parenting time exchange could have serious consequences under California law. Here are a few key points to consider:

1. Contempt of court: Failing to comply with a court order, including a parenting time schedule, can be considered contempt of court. This...
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