Child Custody

[brandonv]

I currently have a shared parenting plan with my child's mother. I never miss a visitation, and I see her 14 days out the month faithfully. We were never married, and our child is currenty 5 years old. We had just ended, in May, a year long custody case. She was attempting to relocate from Ohio to Florida because her new husband had a job lined up. She was denied the motion to relocate and is now threatening to pick up and move knowing that she may be in contempt of court. She openly states she doesn't care if she goes to jail and is going to move. Is there anything I can do proactively? I honestly feel my daughter would be better off with me. I also just found out she no longer has health insurance which was provided through the county. I want what's best for my daughter whether it be with me or not. My daughter's mother has 2 older daughter's from a previous marriage and an infant from her current marriage. I have heard that siblings do play a factor in custody cases. However, I feel that my daughter would get the stability, individual love and attention,and have the financial means to be the best person she can be and reach her potential with me. Thank you in advance for your advice and help!

 

[Duranie]

If mom is going to defy a court order that is a good way to lose custody. Document everything and see if you can provide proof that she still intends to relocate. Did you ask for custody previously or did you just block the move?

 

[brandonv]

I previously asked to block the move because I felt it was important for our daughter to spend an equal amount of time with us both.

 

[jharris352]

Sounds like you two just want to stay in court. I know you don't but this could be never ending. I would take her back to court to take custody from her based on the statements she has made of her intention to deprive you of custody by defying the court order. Do you have any proof of these statements by any chance? The Judge will be happy to take her up on the "I'll go to jail if I have to" boast. They don't play around. He/she may just take the children from her since she is threatening to commit a crime by illegally taking them from the State.