Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

I am a single father and my ex girlfriend and I share a 16 month old daughter. We have not seen a judge or filed for custody. She now is refusing to let me have my daughter back. She moved in with another guy without my knowledge and Im afraid I am going to lose her. What do I need to do to prevent this from going any further. Thank you for your time.


Asked on 6/16/10, 5:04 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Fran Brochstein Attorney & Mediator

I would be in an attorney's office this week and file legal documents in order to have legal visitation and legal parental duties and rights -- all signed by a judge.

Do it NOW!

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Answered on 6/16/10, 8:32 pm
Bob Leonard Bob Leonard Law Group, PLLC

You can file s suit affecting the parent-child relationship. That will establish rights and duties to the child, a possession schedule, child support, health insurance, and other matters.

Since you were not married, you may have to prove paternity which is now easy due to DNA testing.

Unless there is something (drug history, criminal history, mental illness, etc.) that you have not mentioned, you should have joint rights to your child. It is important to get your legal rights established as soon as possible. If she has not let you see the child for a long time, she could argue that it would be harmful to the child to suddenly introduce you to her life, so move quickly.

If the child lives in the North Texas area, we would be glad to visit with you and see if we can help.

Bob Leonard, Jr.

Board Certified-Family Law, Texas Board of Legal Specialization

(817) 336-8500

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Answered on 6/17/10, 9:28 am


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