Legal Question in Family Law in Texas
Summer trip for three year old
Last week my ex-husband called and told me he wanted to take our three year old son to Alaska for a week during August. I don't want my 3 year old to have to endure a 10-12 hour flight to stay in a cabin. Is there any way around this? The divorce decree says something about written notice by April 1. Does that have anything to do with this situation?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Summer trip for three year old
I agree with everything Mr. Grissom said. As a female lawyer mom, I have seen many mothers anguish over similar situations. It is hard. That is a precious, tiny, sweet little angel, off to face the cold wild yonder where there are bears and long plane rides. My kids are teenagers now, and trust me, they not only survive this stuff, it is stuff that they will love for the rest of their lives. It is a rare and golden opportunity, let them enjoy it. And mom you can be a hero, by talking it up with your son in advance, getting him excited, so that they have a great bonding experience together.
My advice as a lawyer? Let it go, without some proof of danger, you will lose this fight. My advice as a mom? Encourage it, you have 60 years left with your son -- handle it in a way that will make him proud of you.
Re: Summer trip for three year old
If there is some valid reason for not allowing the child to take the trip, you should make it with the court. Many children take long plane trips and spend vacations in cabins with their families. You would have to have a really good reason to prevent the child from this trip with his father. Otherwise, you're not going to look too good to the judge. Good Luck.