Child Will Possibly Be Removed From Home

[Katie41]

I pay support to my ex for my children. One of the children got into trouble with the law and will possibly be removed from my ex's care. Since he has sole custody (the only way he would sign the papers, huge regret) I get absolutely no information about what is going on. I don't know who to contact, who can give me any answers and I fell very helpless. I am new to the forum and so excited that I was able to find a place where I could receive some answers.

[kamkatie]

What does it say in your separation agreement in regards to access to information? I know mine specifically states that both my ex and I have the right to all information regarding school, medical, legal etc.

[Katie41]

Very good question, I will have to re-read the agreement but to be honest I don't believe it mentions anything about it.

[kamkatie]

How old is the child in question? How did you find out they may be removed from care? I would try a written/email request to your ex regarding the situation at the very least. Make sure any refusal for information from your ex is documented.

[Katie41]

The child is 15, put in a secure facilty for a week, I was able to speak with him but not see him. My ex likes to play games, he needs to be in control. He called me to tell me that he was removed by the police and then placed in the facility. He is back home for now, I will know more next week with any luck

[FL_Needs_To_Change]

As a general rule, when no particular address is made in an order for custody, the accessing parent DOES have a legal right to all information pertaining to the child, IE school records and report cards, medical records and any medical care/treatment, etc.
If the order is that he has sole custody, this only means he has the sole responsible for decisions relating to the care etc of the child, but it does not negate any right to information.

If the email request does not pan out, send a written “registered” request to his lawyer.
If that does not give you the info that you need, the only option is to seek an order to get him to comply to your requests.
I know that this does not offer you any timely piece of mind, but I’m hoping that you get a reply to your written requests.

[Katie41]

Thank you so much for that information. I had no idea, my lawyer is a bit slow sometimes and I feel over whelmed at times with not having the answers. I really appreciate you taking the time to help me. Wonderful forum.