My ex is trying to change our custody agreement and I'm freaking out

May 61 min read

Got a letter from her lawyer saying she wants to petition for full custody due to my work hours being inconsistent. I work construction so yeah my schedule isn't 9-5 but the kids are with a sitter their mom approves of and we have a solid routine. I can't afford a custody battle right now and I'm genuinely worried about losing time with them. Should I try to talk to her directly first or just get my own lawyer? This is messing with my head

7 comments176 views

Comments(7)

KKevin M.RegularMay 8

I've been dealing with custody stuff too and honestly the legal side is necessary but don't panic yet. A lawyer will tell you exactly where you stand. The work hours thing is something lots of dads navigate. Stay calm and build your case.

DDerek P.RegularMay 7

Sorry you're going through this. Focus on what you can control - being present when you have the kids, responsive communication, showing up for them. That matters more than the letter she sent. Get a good lawyer and don't try to handle this alone.

KKevinRegularMay 6

Man, that's rough. Have you talked to a family law attorney yet? Your work hours shouldn't automatically disqualify you from custody. A lot of us have demanding jobs and still raise great kids. Document everything - your involvement with the kids, pickups, activities you do together. That stuff matters in court.

PPedroRegularMay 7

I'd be freaking out too but stay rational here. The courts generally don't just hand over full custody unless there's actual neglect. You sound like you care about your kids, so fight for them but do it smart.

CColin M.New DadMay 7

Work hours being 'too much' is pretty vague. Does she have specific examples or is she just being difficult? Either way, get ahead of it legally. You know your situation better than anyone.

RRob H.RegularMay 7

This is rough, man. Talk to a family law attorney ASAP if you haven't already. Don't try to handle this alone. Most give free consultations and they'll tell you what your actual position looks like.

AAlexRegularMay 6

How long has the current arrangement been working? If the kids are doing fine and you've been holding up your end, judges usually don't like disrupting that without a real reason.