Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

Hello. I just got served from my child's father for failure to surrender a child and for joint custody. I currently have full custody and he gets visitation. He hasn't made any efforts to get our son for visitation. Hes never came to my house get him and when we discuss visitation he has an excuse as to why he cant get him. Now he's asking the court to hold me in contempt, jailed, or fined for this. My son's father will text me at times asking when he can see his son and I don't reply because he has a copy of the order and never follows it. What should i do? Should I seek counsel or should I represent myself for Thursdays date?

Thanks,

concerned mother


Asked on 10/03/16, 7:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Mark Dunn Mark D. Dunn

In a contempt action, it's dangerous to represent yourself.

If Dad has asked that you be jailed for more than six months, you can demand a jury.

Usually the first hearing is a "rights" hearing, where the Judge will tell you about your right to remain silent; ask you if you have a lawyer; and if you don't, he'll ask you if you need time to hire one, or if you want one appointed for you.

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Answered on 10/04/16, 12:55 pm


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