I'm a single father in Florida with custody of my 7-year-old daughter. At the time of my divorce 2 years ago, my ex-wife and I agreed that I would take custody (she would retain full parental rights, of course) of our daughter. Now, two years later, she is starting to make noises about wanting custody back. She's now living with a boyfriend.
My understanding of Florida law is that post-judgement modification of custody is very difficult to petition for, and that she would have to show a serious lapse in our daughter's care before the court would be able to modify custody. I've taken exemplary care of her, footing the bill for just about everything, including her school. The only drawback to my situation is that I work odd hours, including nights and weekends. When I work, though, she stays with my parents, who live half a mile away.
I guess I'm just looking for reassurance from people knowledgable in these things that my position is secure!
2006-07-14 10:54:45 · 7 answers · asked by Anonymous in Family & Relationships ➔ Marriage & Divorce
The man she's living with is a guy whose 20-year marriage she stepped in and busted up. She also broke up another man's marriage while she and I were still married. I don't know how much bearing that would have legally, but her actions are all verifiable; for instnace, the man she's living with now . . . his divorce decree states that she's not to be left alone with his kids.
2006-07-14 10:55:19 · update #1
I live in Jacksonville.. and i wouldnt worry Judges here in Florida dont not like to up root children from stable environments unless they absolutely have to.. your daughter has stayed with u for the last couple of years and she has a stable household.. I cheer you on.. Im the daughter of a single father that had custody of me, and i thank god every day that he had custody of me.. although i love my mother, she's a "good time" mom and i would of surely never of finished school and hung out with the wrong crowds ect if she had custody.. I have the greatest dad in the world and he told my mom from day one that he'll fight her with every penny he has to keep us kids.. Dont u worry.. any lawyer worth their salt would tell her she doesnt have a chance in hell.. Continue being a great dad.. and dont let her scare you.. if she really wanted to be the custodial mom she would of been years ago but she willingly gave u custody that alone shows that she finds you to be a fit parent.. so dont fret.. :) GOOD LUCK
2006-07-14 11:05:11 · answer #1 · answered by brwneyedgrl 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Personally I don't think you have anything to worry about. Sound's like she's from one man to another. You daughter does not need to be subject to that life style. Do whatever you need to do to keep her in your custody. First, keep the child out of this as much as possible, though you may need to talk to her about it at some point if you have'nt already. Hopefully your keeping little notes on her behavior without daughters knowledge. If you would need to go to court you would have things to use against her. Best of luck to you and your daughter.
2006-07-14 11:24:49 · answer #2 · answered by Tate 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Verify away...and make a journal of her actions. Hire a PI and get glossies...she is living with another man, not married..not conducive to good parenting. Back up all data and have it ready for the judge. Oh, and sue for child support NOW! She owes for half the childs upbringing...strip her of money needed for a lawyer..let's just see how much noise the Biotch can make. !! Trust me, the only reason she wants the child is to make you pay child support..to be spent on her and her boy friend..not the child. Don't be a chump..take her before she takes you!
2006-07-14 11:00:40 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Good luck with your battle .I've had custody of my daughter for over 11 years Her mother is a junkie, hooker and has HIV and HEP C and B,and has been able to continuously have me in court over the last 10 years. Cost me everything, but i battle on Remember this one thing "Never trust a Jucking Fudge"
2006-07-14 11:16:59 · answer #4 · answered by jackfm2006 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
No worries. She has to basically prove you unfit. All you have to do is prove to them that you have been the man. Courts will ask things like how is her grades, do you provide adequate and responsible childcare when you are not there, have you taken up drugs, alcohol or started to become abusive, have you been arrested for anything or had CPS called on you. If you can verify your care, then there's nothing to worry about.
2006-07-14 11:20:26 · answer #5 · answered by ntoriano 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
More than likely the judge will look at the fact that she just gave her daughter away without a fight even if you are her dad. Also, she has real character issues. Good luck hope you keep her.
2006-07-14 11:07:55 · answer #6 · answered by chevy_gal73 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i think that your wifes relationships would be harmful to your dauther well being. i can't see a judge, taking her from a loving relationship and putting her in damaging one. i think your safe in your sole custody. also in order to change the agreement, she would have to prove that you were an unfit father.
2006-07-14 11:08:47 · answer #7 · answered by Ms Berry Picker 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋