I'm entering a legal battle with my ex over the custody of my children. He BARELY sees them or calls them but recently decided he wants sole custody of them. My guess is that he doesn't want to pay me childsupport and he's just lashing out. He was mentally/emotionally abusive when we were together (pathological liar, alcoholic, and he IGNORED all of us) but he has continued to be supportive of us financially (mostly because he knows he'll go to jail if he doesn't and he makes a LOT of money). I'm BROKE and can barely afford a lawyer. Does anyone out there have any advice? I ADORE my children and my entire life has revolved around them since they came into this world...
I think local law students will sometimes take on cases for free or at least offer legal advice - I would check into this. Also, there may be other free legal services you could tap into; however, unless you have something seriously wrong with you that your ex can prove in court - i.e. you're a drug addict or a prostitute - there is really no way he'll gain full custody - logically, there would be no reason to uproot your kids if he can't prove you've been a bad parent. Just my opinion and with your kids, I'm sure you don't want to take any chances, so check into some free legal counsel.
Im not sure. I am starting the whole divorce and custody process. I worry about the same thing. I get the feeling my ex is going to try and get custody of my kids also. Not because he can't stand to be without them for a day but because of his pride. In his mind he is The Man! Whatever. If I had my way I wouldn't even let them go to his (actually his new woman's) house. The last time my son was there his lady friend was supposed to be watching him and didn't. He was left alone on a 2 story porch. On a porch swing and he was barely 1 year old. Guess what? He fell. So naturally I don't trust her. But I don't think that I can prevent my children from going over there. Can I?
Men who are abusive are very, very manipulative. Find yourself a good attorney, even if it puts you into debt. There are attorneys who will go for attorneys' fees and court costs if he initiates the action. Please don't be lulled into thinking he can't get the kids if you're a good parent. I've seen it happen. You need to find a good attorney as soon as you can. If you are low-income, Pisgah Legal Services will help you. Otherwise, they probably can refer you to someone.