Wife took off with our kids... need advice

Seeking Advice
1

I have a lawyer, but I’m looking for a second opinion on how to approach this situation. I thought things would be amicable, but it’s clearly turned contentious. We separated in August, and I live in a trailer on our property while she’s in the main house. She served me in early January, and I filed a response last week. We don’t have court-ordered custody times for our three kids (4, 2, 1), but we had been following a custody schedule for the last few months. She’s a stay-at-home mom, while I work an 8-5 job.

Last Wednesday, I came home from work to spend time with the kids, but she was gone. At first, I thought they were just out, but then I got worried and realized she had taken off with them. This isn’t the first time she’s done this. I’ve tried calling and texting her, just asking her to bring the kids home. I even called the police, but without a court order, they only did a wellness check. I know she wouldn’t physically hurt them, but I’m concerned about the emotional impact of moving them around. She even forgot our 2-year-old’s comfort blanket. I’m guessing she’s with friends or at a hotel. It’s really tough for me because she won’t let me see or talk to them, and she’s ignoring all my texts. The anxiety and stress have left me feeling shaky and ill.

I’ve been trying to stay calm and document everything, which my lawyer agrees is the right approach. In the past, she would usually calm down after a few days, but it’s been four days now. I think discussing custody, child support, and alimony has upset her. I’m thinking our next step is to file an emergency Ex Parte on Monday to force a custody hearing. What do you all think?

2

It sounds like you’re doing everything you can to stay calm and document the situation. Filing for an Ex Parte sounds like a reasonable next step, especially given the circumstances.

3

Amari said:
It sounds like you’re doing everything you can to stay calm and document the situation. Filing for an Ex Parte sounds like a reasonable next step, especially given the circumstances.

I agree. You need to establish legal custody as soon as possible. The longer this goes on, the more complicated it can get.

4

Definitely keep documenting everything. If she’s taken off with the kids before, it’s important to have a record of her behavior.

5

Carter said:
Definitely keep documenting everything. If she’s taken off with the kids before, it’s important to have a record of her behavior.

Right? If it happens again, it will help your case in court. Stay strong and focused.

6

I’m sorry you’re going through this. It’s tough not knowing where your kids are. Make sure to keep your lawyer in the loop about everything.

7

cynthiasmith said:
I’m sorry you’re going through this. It’s tough not knowing where your kids are. Make sure to keep your lawyer in the loop about everything.

For sure. Your lawyer can guide you on the best way to approach this moving forward.

8

Filing an Ex Parte is definitely a good move. It might get things moving quicker so you can see your kids again.

9

Noe said:
Filing an Ex Parte is definitely a good move. It might get things moving quicker so you can see your kids again.

Exactly. The sooner you can get a court order in place, the better for your kids’ stability.

10

Keep your cool. I know it’s hard, but try to stay focused on your kids and their well-being. You’ll get through this.

11

Vernon said:
Keep your cool. I know it’s hard, but try to stay focused on your kids and their well-being. You’ll get through this.

Yeah, staying calm is crucial. It’ll help you think clearly about your next steps.