Child Custody Dispute Resolution

Summary

In Virginia, joint custody requires both parents to agree on healthcare decisions, like changing a childs therapist. If disputes occur, consider communication, mediation, or court intervention. Document any threats or custody violations for legal proceedings. Properly document school absences to avoid truancy issues, and follow school policies for reporting absences.

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what do i do if the other parent wont let my child change therapist
In Virginia, parents generally share decision-making authority regarding their child's healthcare. If you and the other parent can't agree on changing therapists, you may consider the following steps:
- Communicate: Try to discuss the reasons for the change and reach a mutual agreement.
- Mediation: Use a neutral third party to help resolve the disagreement.
- Court: File a motion with the court to request a decision on the matter.
Do you know if you have a joint custody arrangement?
the child doesnt like their current therapist can i change it
In Virginia, if both parents share joint custody, both need to agree on decisions regarding the child's healthcare, including changing therapists. If the other parent doesn't agree, you might consider:
- Communication: Discuss the child's discomfort and reasons for the change.
- Mediation: Engage a neutral third party to help resolve the issue.
- Court: File a motion to request a court decision.
Do you have a joint custody arrangement?
what happens if you bad mouth the step parent
In Virginia, badmouthing a step-parent can have several consequences, especially in the context of custody and visitation issues:
- Impact on Custody: Negative remarks about a step-parent can be used as evidence in custody disputes, potentially affecting the court's decision.
- Parental Alienation: Courts frown upon behavior that alienates a child from the other parent or step-parent.
- Harm to Child: Negative comments can emotionally harm the child and affect their relationship with the step-parent.
It's generally best to avoid speaking negatively about the step-parent in front of the child. Do you have a specific concern related to custody or visitation?
what if the child doesnt like the step parent because of the step parents actions
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If the child doesn't like the step-parent due to the step-parent's actions, it's important to address the situation carefully. Here are a few steps you can consider:
- Communication: Talk to the child to understand their concerns and feelings.
- Mediation: Engage a neutral third party to facilitate discussions between the child, you, and the step-parent.
- Counseling: Seek professional counseling for the child to help them process their feelings and improve family dynamics.
Is there a specific incident or concern that led to the child's discomfort with the step-parent?
what happens if a second threat is put on file for a step parent toward the co parent
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In Virginia, if a second threat is put on file for a step-parent toward the co-parent, the following actions may occur:
- Increased Scrutiny: The court may take the threats seriously and increase scrutiny on the step-parent's behavior.
- Protective Orders: The co-parent may seek a protective order to ensure their safety.
- Custody Implications: The threats may impact custody and visitation arrangements, potentially restricting the step-parent's involvement.
Is there a specific incident or detail about the threats you can share?
i was picking up my kids at the agreed time and the step parent wouldnt let me get the kids and threated to beat my ass.
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That sounds like a serious situation. Here are some steps you might consider:
- Document the Incident: Record details about the threat and refusal to transfer custody.
- Contact Law Enforcement: If you feel threatened, report the incident to the police.
- Seek a Protective Order: Consider getting a protective order against the step-parent.
- Consult a Lawyer: It might be beneficial to get legal advice on custody and visitation rights.
Do you have a custody agreement or court order specifying visitation times?
yes
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Would you like to be connected to local lawyers who can better assist you with your case?
If you agree, I will need your name, phone number, email, and zip code to proceed. Can you give me a bit more information about the issue?
no
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Given the situation with the step-parent's threat and interference with custody, it's important to take legal steps to protect yourself and your children. If you ever change your mind about connecting with local lawyers, feel free to reach out. Stay safe!
i have already gotten a protective order
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Since you already have a protective order, it's important to follow its guidelines strictly. Make sure to document any violations and contact law enforcement if the step-parent continues to pose a threat. If you need further assistance, consulting with a lawyer might still be beneficial.
Is there anything else you need help with?
i have a text message about the father wanting the childs items for school that he doesnt have because he wouldnt let me get my kids at my time. the text message asks if i can take the childs things to him at school. i told the parent in violation that he should pick them up because he violated the agreement. he said he didnt think i would let him get the things and i told him i would him but not the step parent because she threatened me. will that be valuable in court.
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Your text messages could be valuable in court as they document the father's violation of the custody agreement and his request for the child's items. This shows your willingness to cooperate despite the step-parent's threat.
Do you have any specific concerns related to this situation?
what happens in court if you allow your kid to lay out every now and then from school
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In Virginia, allowing your child to miss school without a valid reason can lead to truancy issues. Here are potential consequences:
- Parental Responsibility: Parents may be held accountable for ensuring their child's attendance.
- Legal Action: Repeated absences can result in court involvement, fines, or other penalties.
- School Interventions: Schools may implement attendance improvement plans.
Is there a specific reason for the absences?
mostly sick but occasional mental health day
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In Virginia, schools generally require valid reasons for absences. While sickness is a common and acceptable reason, occasional mental health days should be communicated to the school to avoid truancy issues. Ensure you provide documentation if the absences become frequent.
Do you need help with any other specific legal concern related to this?
if truancy papers come can the co parent turn them in and accuse the other parent
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In Virginia, if truancy papers are issued, both parents can be held responsible. However, a co-parent might try to accuse the other parent. It's important to provide accurate records of absences and any communications with the school to show your involvement and reasons for absences.
Is there anything else you need assistance with?
is sending a written note enough for the school
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Sending a written note to the school explaining the reason for your child's absence is generally acceptable. However, it's important to follow the school's specific policies on reporting absences. You may also want to:
- Call the school to ensure they received the note.
- Provide documentation if required (e.g., doctor's note).
Do you need help with any other legal concerns?