Legal Question in Family Law in Arizona

Moral obligation

Divorce proceedings and child custody agreement were done in AZ. The two kids (9&14) their stepfather and I now live in NC. Kids are to go visit their Dad in AZ for a month this summer. He is now living with someone. This does not jive with what my kids are learning at church and is certainly not a good example. He has many other habits (drinking and gambling) that don't offer a good example either. Is their not some law relating to his ''moral obligation'' to do the right thing by his kids, set a good example. Here I am talking to my kids about abstaining from sex until married, and talking especially to my son (14) about respecting women and he will go out their to AZ and it will all be undone. Is there anything that I can do, legally? Thank you!!


Asked on 3/19/02, 9:29 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Rich Peters R. J. Peters & Assoc., P.C.

Re: Moral obligation

I am not sure that an Arizona Judge would restrict Dad's access on morality issues. If his behavior (especially re: alcohol) amounted to neglect, or outright abuse, then a Judge will be concerned.

We had a Judge a few years ago who DID restrict access only because a Mom moved in with her boyfriend. The case caught a lot of press, and was overturned by the Court of Appeals. Thus, without more, the concept of morality is not too strong in our Court, unfortunately.

Please call me directly if you wish to discuss this further.

/s/ Rich J. Peters, Attorney

JON C. DAKE & ASSOC., P.C.

1422 N. 2nd Street, Suite 100

Phoenix, Arizona 85004

602.254.7251

602.254-1229 (facsimile)

see our web page at www.familylawaz.com

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Answered on 3/19/02, 10:24 am


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