Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Re: How to go about getting visitation after 10 years has passed

The question indicates to me that you are the mother. It seems that you have had no contact with your children in 10 years and since they are 12 that is more than 80% of their lives. Were you ordered to pay child support? If you were ordered to pay, did you do so - ever. Where was your divorce or paternity decree issued? Where do the children live and where do you live? I agree you need advice of a lawyer. Find a lawyer in the state where your children live. If they are in Texas in the Dallas Fort Worth area you can call me at 817 261- 2671. Get prepared to talk to the attorney you choose. Get the court orders that give you the rights and have the orders handy for your first conversation with the lawyer of your choosing.

Re: How to go about getting visitation after 10 years has passed

There are various issues that need to be told;

For instance, is there an outstanding order regarding shared legal custody, financial obligations or other matters that would either benefit you or hinder you.

Second, a lag of 10 years is considerable, and you would have to show to the court that your desire does not conflict with the children's interest, and the reason for you absence during the critical years of the their development.

You could of course negotiate something with the mother.

BUT I WOULD DO NOTHING IN THIS CASE WITHOUT THE ADVICE OF COUNSEL.

Should you have any questions, call or email me.

Re: How to go about getting visitation after 10 years has passed

You question indicates that this deals with MA law. Is that where the children are? Which state issued your last order? If this all occured up there, then you will need to retain an attorney there and establish a visitiation order. If they are in Texas, then you can file here.

You didnt indicate what the problems where that caused you to not see your children. You also didnt say what any current orders say or did. You will need to be much more specific. I suggest that you contact an attorney in the state that will have jurisdiction over your kids to discuss this more