Haven't seen my son in 36 days

Omar said:
I’m going through something similar—day 16. It’s devastating. The court system is slow and frustrating. I hope you get to see your son soon.

The first few days are the hardest because it’s all I can think about. For me, it gets a little easier. The worst is being 15 feet away from him at their house and not being allowed to see him.

@Sloan
What are the terms of the temporary order? 50/50? Is it court-ordered? Your lawyer needs to file a motion for contempt ASAP! The mother is jeopardizing her position in the parenting order. You need to text/call daily to request time with him. If it’s court-ordered, law enforcement might help. Some states handle it as a civil matter, but others will assist because it’s court-ordered.

File a show cause for every visit that didn’t happen.

Call your attorney first thing tomorrow.

If you have an order signed by a judge, I think the police should be able to enforce it.

Shannon said:
If you have an order signed by a judge, I think the police should be able to enforce it.

A lot of times, police say it’s a civil matter and do nothing.

Keep trying to see your child and keep a log. The long game is more important than the next few weeks. Also, keep your head; she’s trying to get you to do something dumb. Don’t take the bait. Good luck.

@Zora
Thank you for this reminder because a lot of dumb ideas keep going through my head.

Sloan said:
@Zora
Thank you for this reminder because a lot of dumb ideas keep going through my head.

I’m going through something similar—it’s been two years of court battles. I keep multiple binders with sections for medical records, court documents, denied visitation dates, and other important details. Staying organized has been key.

Is this the kid you just found out about? Have you done a DNA test?

Ren said:
Is this the kid you just found out about? Have you done a DNA test?

In her legal response, she admitted I’m undoubtedly the father. I’ve requested a test, and she confirmed under oath, but the court still needs to determine it officially.

@Sloan
If paternity has been determined and there’s a temporary plan in place, you need to file a motion for contempt. Denying visitation puts her at risk of losing rights. Keep documenting everything.

Ask your attorney about an emergency hearing.

CourtroomDiva3 said:
Ask your attorney about an emergency hearing.

The court doesn’t hear anything until parents have attempted mediation, but she’s blocking every attempt.

Be careful—this is how my ex-wife got my children to disown me. She put a restraining order against me, and by the time it was thrown out, she had already poisoned my kids against me. I haven’t seen or spoken to them in eight years. Don’t underestimate how destructive parental alienation can be.

Why haven’t you asked your attorney for an emergency hearing? If you have a written order, you can also call the police when you’re supposed to pick up your child.

Go to court to schedule an emergency hearing. It can be done the same day or very quickly.

Do you have a history of domestic abuse?