Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Non-custodial parent wanting to attend daughters graduation.

My ex husband has NOT been a part of our daughters life and she will be graduating in two days and does NOT want him there, therefore did not get him a ticket to attend (they only get 10 a student) and he is threatening to hold me in contempt. Do we ''have'' to legally allow him to attend though she does not want him there or does she have the right to refuse him the right to attend?


Asked on 6/04/09, 6:09 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

TC Langford Langford Law Office

Re: Non-custodial parent wanting to attend daughters graduation.

I agree 100% with Mr. Matlock, and want to add, that it does not appear that your daughter refused to allow him to attend, she just didn't get him a ticket. There is unlikely a provision in the decree that obligates you to provide him a ticket to the ceremony. Additionally, there is nothing to stop him from figuring out a way to get a ticket from someone else, etc.

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Answered on 6/05/09, 7:33 am
Robert Matlock Robert J. Matlock, P.C.

Re: Non-custodial parent wanting to attend daughters graduation.

Your ex is probably not going to do anything except make noise because filing a motion for contempt, etc. will cost time and money. If he has not been involved with the child to this point, he is not likely to spend money over this incident.

If he elects to pursue the matter, he must prove that the order specifically required you to make it possible to attend the graduation ceremony - no order is ever that specific.

Bottom line - it would be wise to consult with a lawyer if the ex continues to make threats but he is not likely to follow through with them.

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Answered on 6/04/09, 6:22 pm


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