I really need some guidance regarding my situation. The father of my child is currently in jail for domestic assault against me. We are not married and don’t live together, but he is on the birth certificate and acknowledges he is the father. We’re out of state visiting from Texas, and he is being held in Missouri. He has a court hearing tomorrow for bond. I don’t have a lawyer for custody in Texas or any custody agreement. Should I seek out a lawyer if he doesn’t get bond? There’s a chance he might not get bond due to being a flight risk. If he does get bond and I stay in Missouri for a week, could he charge me with kidnapping? I plan to get a lawyer for custody if he gets bonded out, but I’m unsure if I need one while he’s in jail or if I should get back to Texas as soon as possible.
You should definitely consult with a lawyer as soon as possible, especially given the domestic violence situation. Even if he’s in jail, having legal representation can help protect your rights and your child’s safety.
If he gets bond and you stay in Missouri, it’s unlikely he could charge you with kidnapping unless you’re preventing him from seeing the child against a court order. However, it’s best to get back to Texas and consult a lawyer before making any decisions.
Document everything that happened, especially the domestic violence incidents. This could be crucial for custody proceedings. You should prioritize getting back to Texas and finding a lawyer who specializes in custody and DV cases.
Given the circumstances, it’s wise to have a lawyer involved sooner rather than later. They can help you navigate the legal complexities and ensure your child’s best interests are represented.
Absolutely seek legal advice ASAP. Even if he’s in jail, you need to be prepared for any scenario, especially if he’s released. Your safety and your child’s safety should come first.