Hey there, My child’s father is currently in jail for hurting me, and he has a serious crime on his record for hurting his ex-partner. I’m worried that even this might not be enough for me to get full custody of our child. I strongly feel that he shouldn’t see our son at all, at least for a year.
You must appear in court and request a change to the conditions governing your custody arrangement. A family attorney can assist you with that.
Make a family practice lawyer’s appointment and get your kids seen by a therapist. One with trauma therapy experience is what you want. A skilled therapist may build trust with your kids and encourage them to talk about the abuse they experienced at their father’s house. This information can then be used by your lawyer to pressure the father to stop taking them unaccompanied.
Your pediatrician or the guidance counselor at your kids’ school might be able to provide a recommendation. There’s a chance your lawyer can recommend someone.
Custody Considerations:
Child’s Best Interest: The court’s primary concern is the child’s best interest, with a strong focus on ensuring their safety.
Evidence of Violence: Providing evidence of the father’s violent behavior towards you and his ex-partner can significantly strengthen your case for sole custody or supervised visitation.
Evidence may include police reports, medical records, restraining orders, or witness testimonies.
Seeking Legal Help:
Consult a Family Law Lawyer: An attorney can provide guidance on the legal aspects of your case, taking into account your state’s specific laws and procedures.
Building a Strong Case: Your lawyer can help you gather evidence, prepare for court, and advocate for your position in seeking full custody or supervised visitation.
Visitation Rights:
Supervised Visitation: In some cases, the court may order supervised visitation, allowing the father to see the child in a controlled environment with a neutral third party present.
No Visitation: Depending on the severity of the violence and concerns for the child’s safety, the court may temporarily or permanently restrict visitation.
Next Steps:
Contact a Domestic Violence Hotline: They can provide emotional support, safety planning resources, and legal referrals.
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
Schedule a Consultation with a Family Law Attorney: Discuss your situation and receive legal advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
Document Everything: Keep copies of police reports, restraining orders, and any other evidence supporting your claims.
Remember, your child’s safety is the priority. By seeking legal guidance and presenting evidence of violence, you can improve your chances of securing a custody arrangement that ensures your child’s well-being.