Child Custody Battle Guidance

Summary

The user is engaged in a custody battle in Pennsylvania. They are separated and have two children aged 4 and 1. They expressed concerns about the mothers irrational behavior, property damage, and child abandonment. The user has been collecting evidence such as text messages and pay stubs. They aim to hold primary custody with the other parent having custody on weekends. The user has been struggling with the other parents irregular visits and lack of interest in spending time with the children. The user is unable to afford a family law attorney and was advised to contact the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network. They were also advised to consider mediation as an alternative to court.

Full Conversation

cusudy
I'm sorry, but I didn't understand your issue. Could you please clarify what "cusudy" means? Are you referring to a custody issue?
custody battle
Are you currently married, divorced, or separated? In Pennsylvania, both parents, regardless of marital status, have a right to seek custody.
separated
What is the age of your child/children involved in the custody battle?

In Pennsylvania, the court considers the child's preference, depending on their maturity level.
* and *
In Pennsylvania, courts consider the best interest of the child in custody cases. Are there any specific concerns you have regarding your children's welfare?
toxic household
What specific incidents or conditions make you believe your children are living in a toxic household?
irrational and inconsistent mother
What evidence do you have to support your claim about the mother's behavior? In Pennsylvania, evidence of parental fitness is crucial in custody battles.
text messages
What kind of content is in these text messages that could support your claim? In Pennsylvania, text messages can be used as evidence if they are relevant and not hearsay.
evidence to property damage and child abandonment
What is the extent of the property damage and how long was the child abandoned? In Pennsylvania, child abandonment is considered a form of neglect.
minimum and couple months
What steps have you taken so far regarding this custody battle? In Pennsylvania, you should file a complaint in the Court of Common Pleas in your county.
collecting information
What kind of information are you collecting for your custody case? In Pennsylvania, it's important to gather evidence that supports the child's best interest.
messages, pay stubs, children’s bed room, parental plan
What is your plan for the children's living arrangements and how do you intend to provide for their needs? In Pennsylvania, courts consider the child's stability and continuity of care.
hold primary custody with other parent holding custody in weekends
What steps have you taken to ensure the safety and well-being of your children during the times they are in the other parent's custody?
working and providing love and financial support
What measures have you taken to document the other parent's behavior during their weekend custody?
they have not had regular weekend visit they say they are to busy to watch the children
What actions have you taken in response to the other parent's irregular weekend visits?

In Pennsylvania, consistent visitation is important for child custody cases.
Asking them to watch them more
What has been the response of the other parent when you asked them to spend more time with the children?
they have work or are busy
What steps have you taken to document these instances of the other parent being too busy for visitation? In Pennsylvania, maintaining a record of these instances can be beneficial for your case.
not many just screen shots
What do these screenshots show? In Pennsylvania, evidence of neglect or lack of interest can impact custody decisions.
the mother stating she does not know when she will watch them
What actions have you taken after receiving these messages from the mother? In Pennsylvania, it's crucial to report any neglectful behavior to the court.
none
What is your plan moving forward? In Pennsylvania, it's important to consult with a family law attorney to guide you through the custody process.
Not sure
What is your financial situation? Are you able to hire a family law attorney or do you need assistance finding low-cost or free legal aid?
no
Are you saying that you're unable to afford a family law attorney?
yes
In Pennsylvania, you can seek free or low-cost legal aid. ****ave you tried contacting Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network? They can be reached at *-*-*-*.
no
I recommend reaching out to the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network. They can provide free or low-cost legal assistance. Their contact number is *-*-*-*.
is there any more advice you can provide
You may want to consider mediation as an alternative to court. It's less adversarial and can be less stressful for children. In Pennsylvania, you can contact the Pennsylvania Council of Mediators.
Legal wise
In Pennsylvania, you can file a petition for custody at your local county court. The court will consider the best interest of the child.