I received temporary custody orders back in late 2021 transferring custodial rights from my ex to myself due to CPS involvement. My lawyer handled everything in Texas, but now I’m out of state with the kids living with me full time.
Since those orders, my ex hasn’t seen or spoken to the kids in almost 3 years, nor has she paid child support despite owing over $15k. Recently, I received letters from the child support office claiming I owe child support. After investigating, I learned the temporary orders have lapsed. Does this mean my ex is legally the custodial parent again? The child support office insists I must pay, which feels unfair given her lack of involvement.
What are my next steps? Should I hire legal counsel to reinstate the temporary orders? Am I truly liable for child support now?
You definitely need a lawyer immediately. Not sorting this out could harm both you and your kids. You’ll likely need legal help in both Texas and your current state.
You’ve been the custodial parent for years. Get the paperwork to prove it and protect your kids from any sudden changes.
File a ‘petition to modify support’ and a ‘support modification order’. Also file for permanent custodial parentage. Ask the judge to instruct the AG to clear your balance and remove your liability for child support entirely.
You should go back to court to seek permanent full custody of the children. The only question is whether you need to do this in TX or your current state. A lawyer can guide you through this.
Jenna said:
You should go back to court to seek permanent full custody of the children. The only question is whether you need to do this in TX or your current state. A lawyer can guide you through this.
I have considered that, but also ‘letting sleeping dogs lie’ because pursuing permanent full custody would create a fight.
@Kelly
Absolutely not. What are you even thinking?
Remember what happened last time you ignored this? You ended up on child support, right? You need to act now before she files and tries to take the kids.