Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

What are my rights as a mother?

I want to move to Florida and my 5 year olds father who lives in Maryland (I live in PA) says he won't allow me take the child. The father doesn't pay any support, does not have a job and has a criminal history (drugs). My son lives with me full time and I support him financially. We have no custody agreement at this point.


Asked on 2/24/09, 6:58 am

2 Answers from Attorneys

Audrey Buglione Law Office of Audrey Buglione

Re: What are my rights as a mother?

Assuming that your son has lived in Pennsylvania at least the past 6 months, Pennsylvania will have jurisdiction. In order to relocate without express permission by the father, you will need to file a petition for custody and at the same time seek permission for relocation. The court looks at a variety of factors to determine whether or not relocation away from a non-custodial parent is in the best interest of the child including your motivation for the move, the lifestyle offered in the new home location, the involvement of the parents with the child and the effect that relocation will have on the existing relationship between the child and the non-custodial parent. I would be happy to meet with you to confidentially discuss the specific facts of your case. Feel free to contact me at (717) 798-8LAW or by email at the address below.

Audrey

Read more
Answered on 2/24/09, 1:56 pm
John Davidson Law Office of John A. Davidson

Re: What are my rights as a mother?

Step one get a custody order. Once you have that in place then you can address the move.

Until you have the order you have no rights superior to the father's rights.

If you have any questions feel free to contact me. the initial consultation is free.

{John}

Read more
Answered on 2/24/09, 7:58 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Family Law, Divorce, Child Custody and Adoption questions and answers in Pennsylvania