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Open Question: Can I change my visitation?

Hi. First off, a little info: I am 14 and live in the state of Texas. My parents divorced when I was very young and I have been visiting between their houses ever since. I used to go there every other weekend but after my mom asked for more child support for some reason now I have to go there every Thursday and first, third, and fifth weekends. I also go there a lot during holidays. The thing is, I absolutely despise my dad. He is always being mean to me, making fun of me, taking away my computer usage while my brother can still play. I have repeatedly asked my mom and told my dad about these problems but niether will do anything. I need to know if I, a minor in central Texas, can call a court or something and change my visitation. I just want to never go there again and I don't care if I don't get support or anything from him. I figured I would have a chance considering he has also broken some of the City of Austin Children's Rights. Thank you. more

Resolved Question: What do you think of letter to Editor illegal Family in Trouble’ Commentary?

There is a family of illegal immigrants in Fredonia facing deportation that I read about in a front page article. Although I feel sorry for the children because it is going to be a huge culture change, this deportation has to be done, along with any other illegal immigrants they can and need to find. If these individuals are given a "get out of jail free card" because they were unintelligent enough to have kids (knowing they could be caught and deported) it would set a dangerous precedent in which all illegal immigrants would be scurrying around trying to have kids so they could stay also . There are an estimated 12-20 million illegal immigrants in this country, counting the 2 million or so still here on expired visas from countries around the world. These people are stealing jobs from American citizens (lower paying jobs but that is what welfare is really for, to supplement and help families with lower paying jobs make ends meet, not totally support families. That is a different commentary though) and they are stealing from the federal goverment by not paying taxes ( like I do every week ) and in some cases working over the welfare system. I will end this commentary with a ''good job Arizona!" It is about time someone stepped up to the plate to address the illegal immigrant issue. And all you bleeding heart liberals that are reading this ,don't even try screaming "racism.'' It is a fact, if china was on our southern border, Arizonians would be looking for Chinese. In our case it happens to be Mexico so they are looking for illegal mexicans Get over it. Hopefully New Mexico and Texas follows Arizona's lead. Roy Powell Jamestown http://post-journal.com/page/content.detail/id/562451.html more

Open Question: child support question?

I am disabled and receiving SSDI. I have two daughters from my x-wife, an 11 year old and a 7 year old. There has never been any back child support involved, and my x-wife never had to get the Attorney General involved to make me pay child support before I became disabled, I always paid it without legal action being taken against me. When I became disabled in 2008 I was told that I did not have to pay child support,at the time I was not working at all and the SSA has been paying my daughters $200 per month since. My question is... I recently got a job, I am attempting to re-enter the workforce, but I am still disabled until considered gainfully employed (this is what the SSA told me). They told me it takes a 9 month probation period for SSA to make the conclusion if one is considered gainfully employed. Then if one is determined gainfully employed they are no longer determined disabled. So in the meanwhile I am considered working and disabled at the same time... My question is… Am I required by Texas law (I live in Houston, Texas) to pay to my x-wife child support while in the 9 month probation period while I am still considered disabled by the Social Security Administration, or am I required by law to pay child support during my 9 month probation period regardless of my being disabled. I asked the SSA to answer this question for me and they said that they could not answer it for me. Please help me with my question. Thank You very much, Michael Moschella more

Open Question: Help, I need to leave?

Me and my husband do not get along at all. We are constantly fighting about everything. He is very emotionally abusive to me and somewhat my 7 year old daughter who is not his. Our fights have started becoming a little physical. His temper blows and he slaps me, shoves me, and hits with things but never punches. Although his open handed slaps hurt like a punch. He tells me how fat I am and that no one else will ever want me, even though I am not really overweight. He's always checking my phone and asking about what number are called. He is also a very selfish person, blowing money when we don't have it and buying himself things. My daughter and our biological son have been staying with their grandparents house the last couple of weeks because our fighting has gotten so bad that I don't want them to hear anymore of this nonsense, or God forbid see him slap or push me. I have applied for HUD but they said it would be 8 months to a year to get in, and I can't find any other help with rent. I am currently living 3 hours away from any family because I am attending the closest college with my degree plan. I can't leave now because I only have one year of school left and will be graduating in May. My instructors encourage no working either because the school is so demanding, which it is. I receive child support from my first husband, but not anything from my current because of the fact that I still live here but when I leave then I will also receive some from him. I live in Texas and it just seems so hard to get assistance with rent. I need out of this situation now, but if I go to victim services, will he just get in trouble? That could just make the situation worse because he could lose his job. We just need to get away, any suggestions?Thank You for all the information....I am going to stay with a friend tonight and some family is coming tomorrow to help me pack up my stuff and find somewhere to stay. The resources are going to be very helpful! more

Open Question: Psychological Guidance for Family Distress?

I've had a miserable childhood so far. My mother raised two sons with a drug-abusing boyfriend who has been to jail countless times, rehab didn't help him. She could never get a high paying job, she struggled paying bills and being a single parent. She could never get ahead. Her father died four years before her first born. Her mother was the daughter of a wealthy family, a family that her mother thought would support her as she grew older. Her family unfortunately died weeks apart from eachother, each dying off one by one, until it was just her and her brother. Her mother favored her brother, and her brother received the fortune in the will and everything in the family name. My grandmother was left alone with no money, a family friend took her in to live with her. While my mom stayed at the house and lived on her own, eventually finding a boyfriend who she had two boys with. Fourteen years of conflict and police interference, my father eventually got in touch with his family in Texas, who took him in, so he left California to escape the temptations of drugs, for we live in a busy city. He eventually married a woman and took in three step children three years after leaving. My mother and brother live a horrible life, we have no money. My Grandmother does not cooperate, she is verbally abused by the man who took her in, he attempts to alienate her from her family. He claims we are nothing but drama, but she can not leave him because she is in his will and we could never thrive if she was on her own. We have no money for rent, my mom had to date a guy who helps pay half the rent. My Grandmother is retired obviously, she receives social securities checks once a month, for a grand. More than half that grand goes to the man she lives with because he paid off my mother's credit card debt, which was sixteen thousand dollars. My mom will never bring home enough money to ensure us a happy life, her boyfriend has anger problems and is not looking to better our existing family. My grandmother is unhappy, is abused verbally, sad, has no place to go other than living with the man, who is my Godfather by the way. He is tired of having to deal with our problems, he is tired of having to pay for our troubles, he has to loan his car to us because my mother has to loan HER car to her boyfriend because his car broke down, and they both need to drive to work. What's there to do? And don't say talk things out, my Grandmother is stubborn and my Godfather never had kids, his wife died, his stepchildren resented him, he's grumpy, and we're screwed, we always knew we were. more

Open Question: If my ex girlfriend from North Carolina got married do I stil pay child support?

my son is 15 and the new bride and husband moved to texas as he just joined the army..I dont mind paying but she took my kid there without my permission and as i have weekend visitation rights I feel I should have a say in the matter, so do I still pay child support legally and should I tell my lawyer that she moved and will this have an effect on my child support payments(do i still make them)?THANK YOU FOR THE HELPi know he's still my son etc.. but he tells me she wont even buy him some flip-flops for summer 'cause its so hot in texas and wants me to send HIM some money via a new friend. yes I've already sent it but my lawyer hasn't gotten back to me and I feel bad for my son. more

Resolved Question: Filipinoys, watch out! look who's coming to a neighborhood near you in hordes?

http://www.cnn.com/2010/CRIME/07/13/sex.offenders.passports/index.html?hpt=C2 (CNN) -- Thousands of registered sex offenders have received U.S. passports, including at least 30 federal employees, according to a Government Accountability Office report obtained by CNN. The GAO report said the Department of State cannot legally deny passports to registered sex offenders, except those specifically convicted of sex tourism. The report concluded that about 4,500 U.S. passports of the more than 16 million issued in fiscal year 2008 were issued to registered sex offenders. "Federal statutes authorize the Secretary of State to deny issuance of a passport in certain circumstances, such as while an individual is imprisoned or on parole or supervised release for a conviction for international drug trafficking or sex tourism or is in arrearages for child support," the report states. "However, there is currently no comprehensive program to deny passports to applicants who are registered sex offenders." The State Department called the report "very misleading" and adding it "conveys more 'shock value' than factual accuracy." In a written response, the department pointed out that only a fraction of 1 percent of the 16 million passports issued in fiscal year 2008 went to registered sex offenders. In addition, the title of the report "fails to convey that GAO found no lawful reasons for the department to deny or revoke the passports of the case study sex offenders based on their status as sex offenders." "The report appears to suggest, without any foundation, that the Department's issuance of passports to certain Americans facilitated their commission of sex crimes abroad," the department's response said. "There are no facts in the report which show that any of the thirty individuals included in the case studies used his passport to travel to a foreign country to commit a sex crime." The original title of the report, "Passports Issued to Thousands of Registered Sex Offenders," was later changed to "Current Situation Results in Thousands of Passports Issued to Registered Sex Offenders." The GAO report was requested by Sen. Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, and Sen. Max Baucus, D-Montana. The GAO studied data from the National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR). However, the approximately 4,500 sex offenders who received passports in fiscal year 2008 "is likely understated because many of the records in the passport database and the NSOR lacked valid Social Security numbers ... In addition, the NSOR does not currently contain a comprehensive listing of all sex offenders from the states." The GAO found cases that include a sex offender from Texas who received a passport while in prison, a Delaware man with multiple sex convictions who traveled to the Philippines, Germany and France since receiving his passport, and a Georgia man who has traveled to the Philippines, Ireland and Panama. Among the federal employees who received passports was an aerospace engineer with NASA, an employee of the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, and a Postal Service carrier who traveled to Taiwan and Japan after receiving his passport. About 50 of those who received passports either lived outside the United States or "their whereabouts were unknown," the report said. A new law took effect in December 2008 that prohibits anyone convicted of sex tourism from receiving a U.S. passport. However, the report said, the Department of State was not even aware of the law until April of this year after the GAO "brought this statute to its attention." "When Congress passes a law and the president signs it, then the Executive Branch needs to execute it," Grassley said in a statement. "I'm shocked that GAO had to inform the State Department that Congress made individuals convicted of sex tourism ineligible for passports back in December 2008. It's inexcusable that the State Department did nothing to enforce that provision for 14 months. Since someone who is late on child support payments cannot receive a passport, then surely these criminals should also be stopped from traveling internationally." "It also is disturbing that the GAO found examples prior to that new law where the State Department issued passports to convicted sex offenders who fled law enforcement, received government housing subsidies, and work for the Post Office. This report raises a lot of serious questions about how effectively the government protects us from child predators," Grassley said. The report also studied a group of registered sex offenders -- many who held positions of public trust, including a school teacher, religious layman, and health care provider. "Other cases involve registered sex offenders who owe child support or are currently in prison or whose whereabouts ar more

Resolved Question: Have you seen what the Republican Convention in Texas has as it's agenda.?

Another exercise in extremism. That’s our take on the new party platform adopted by Texas Republicans at their state convention on June 12 in Dallas. See our analysis of the platform here. The full platform is here. Among the planks: * Separation of church and state is a myth. * Teach junk science in public schools. * Give politicians on State Board of Education — instead of teachers and scholars — even more power to decide what students should learn. (And give the SBOE authority over colleges and universities, too.) * Promote the “independent and sovereign authority” of Texas — and form a “Constitutional State Militia” (apparently to protect that sovereignty). * Undermine the national census. * Keep teens ignorant about protecting themselves from pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases — teach abstinence-only-until-heterosexual marriage instead of sex education. * Criminalize embryonic stem cell research. * Demonize gay and lesbian people, criminalize their relationships and bar them from having custody even of their own children. * Bar federal courts from hearing cases on issues involving religious freedom and gay rights. * Get us out of the United Nations! And the World Trade Organization! * Keep Islamic law out of America! * Down with ACORN! * Turn Martin Luther King Jr. into a Republican hero. (Seriously?) * Repeal the Endangered Species Act. * Abolish the Federal Reserve System. * Completely privatize Social Security. * Repeal the new health care reform law (and apparently permit insurance companies to discriminate against children and adults with pre-existing conditions). * Divert public school tax dollars to private and religious schools. * Repeal minimum wage laws and measures that make it easier for citizens to register and vote. * Gut the Americans with Disabilities Act. * Pander to “birthers” and nativists. It was particularly interesting, we thought, that Texas Republicans have decided to claim the heritage of the Civil Rights Movement by declaring Martin Luther King Jr. to have been a Republican. In fact, King supported Democrats John Kennedy (1960) and Lyndon Johson (1964) for president. He also called the 1964 Republican National Convention a “frenzied wedding . . . of the KKK and the radical right.” (See page 247 of The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr.) It looks like GOP convention delegates had the same politicized understanding of American history as the State Board of Education does. I am proudly voting for Bill White. http://www.billwhitefortexas.com/Is it this bad in the state where you live?see the full platform: http://www.tfn.org/site/DocServer/2010_RPT_PLATFORM.pdf?docID=1561LOL!! The cons are so threatened by my exposing the ignorance of their platform that all they can do is call me a liar. more

Voting Question: Child Support doesn't do anything whether you pay or not u are treated the same way?

Per Georgia Law Code 19-12-1 A parent can not change the last of the child without notify the other party. She lives in GA I live I Texas, we were never married I pay child support got behind so I pay my monthly and extra 200 what am in arrears. And recently my child was increase another $100 making it 660 and I only make 11.00 an hour. I last saw my son when he was 2 he is now 17. His mother tld him that the man he lives was his real dad. So she got his last name change to her husband and chld support people know and they dont care. And get this she called after all these years and say do us a favor do not persue him u are only confusing him. I will agree to waive all rights and she agrees to waive all monies owed. Is this possible? more

Resolved Question: i live in texas and was wondering if i lost my job and i pay child support can they take it out of my 401k?

I live in texas and my job sistuation has changed.i am current on my child support and was wondering if they can take my 401k or take money out for child support more

Resolved Question: do you still pay child support in texas after you give up rights on your children?

My ex gave up rights to my children but the state (cps) has taken them away from me also. The girls stay with some of my family in another city. Would either of us still be required to pay child support? more

Resolved Question: Texas child support question.?

My son came to live with me in Sept of 09. I currently still pay child support for my son(payroll deduct)and my ex writes me a check for what I pay back to me. I am getting tired of dealing with the check thing and she has refused to pay me any child support. I applied at the Attorney General and they finally (yesterday) received my application. They say it could take up to 3 months to process. Does it normally take that long? I talked with a attorney who said he could probably get it done in a month for $500 total charge. Should I wait around for the Attorney General or just hire my own attorney? If I with the attorney general and she hires a attorney herself will I end up having to hire me one too anyway? Can I get back child support for the 11 months I have had him and she has not paid anything? Thanks!! more

Resolved Question: Child Support question in Texas especially if you used the attorney General?

Resolved Question: Not letting my son's dad know about him?

Since my son was born his father has never helped me in anyway with supporting him. I worked my whole pregnancy just so I could afford to buy everything he needed. He would promise to send me things like diapers they never came. Shortly after that he got locked up in prison for 4 years for theft and sexual assault, (he now has to register as a sex offender)and during that time I met the man that is now my husband when my son was 2. My son will be 6 soon and we have a daughter that will be 3 and are expecting a baby girl next month. Never not once has he given me any grief about supporting a child that isn't his. My son calls him dad and though we have had our problems and have been separated once, he always provided for both children. My son's real dad got out last year and has seen his son but is upset that he is calling someone else dad. He is even more upset with me because I had to file for child support because I am receiving assistance from the state while attending college. He has always refused to give me any money whatsoever and has called me a gold digger for asking.He promised my son that he would send him something for Christmas and never did when that happen I broke complete contact with him and refused to allow him in my son's life. Since then he keeps emailing my friends and family asking for my contact information saying he wants to be part of his son's life and that I am keeping him from seeing my son. Keeps saying that he can't get a hold of me cause I change my number and move around. I had to change my number cause he kept having his sisters call me and threaten me. He also keeps demanding that he be allowed to pick his son up and take him for visits ( he lives in Texas and I in Illinois) without me escorting him but I know the minute I do that I will never see my son again. He keeps saying that I'm the one with the problem and that I am in the wrong but he won't give me an address where he is staying, he is running from child support which is sad cause this is his only child. I don't usually never condone anyone keeping their children from their parent but I really feel that this is the best for my son. I just wanna know if there are any other parents that have been in similar situations. Do you think it's wrong to keep your kid away from someone you know isn't right for them? I mean it's not like my son has a relationship with him his dad didn't take any time to bond with him and he was visiting for a month and a half.I know some people say we should go to court but like I said he won't even give me his address cause he is afraid of child support finding him. On top of that why should I go through the trouble when he is the one saying he wants to be there? more

Resolved Question: How can I change my daughters last name?

Ok this is the deal. I live in Texas and my 10 yr old daughter has her biological fathers last name. He hasn't paid child support for the past 7 years and has failed to exercise his visitation rights. She basically has nothing to do with him and his family. My partner has been a father to her for the past 7 years and wants her to have his last name. Does he have to adopt her? Do we need her biological fathers consent? What exactly do we need to do? Thanks for your help. =) more

Resolved Question: can my ex move my daughter out of state.?

i live in arkansas and i need to know if my ex can move to texas with my daughter? so here is the situation. i get weekend visitation on a regular basis i am paying child support on a regular basis and i do not owe any back child support. she is married with another kid and her job offered her another job out of state. i need to know what are my rights here and what can i do to prevent this from happening. i love my daughter more than anything ever created. i cant live without seeing her. someone please give me some advice from personal knowledge. thanks. more

Resolved Question: Can I seek custody of my 12 year old daughter from her mother?

I live in Texas and I would like to seek custody of my 12 year old daughter from her mother. I am the father. My daughter has been wanting to live with me and has stated that since she could talk. Her mother at first said she wouldn't stand in her way if she wanted to live with me but since I am ready i have everything ready she want let her. Her mother is not a bad person and takes care of her but I think it is more her receiving the child support. How do I seek custody. more

Resolved Question: How do I get a Child Labor Permit?

I'm 14 and want to get a job at Sonic Drive-in or a local grocery store (minimum wage is $7.25 where I live, which is pretty good, and one of my friend's older sister works at the grocery store and I'm friends/neighbors with the person who owns Sonic) My mom is on Medical Disability due to a brain surgery she had 2-3 years ago. Apparently, in the state of Texas, since my mom is on MD I am allowed to get a Child Labor Permit. My mom's busy lately so she told me to look it up and find out how. I have no idea where to start and how to. :( I want to have my own money, plus, since money might be a little tight (my twin brother just got braces... My parents are divorced and my dad only gives a little bit of child support...) so I want to use the money to help my brothers and I buy school supplies, clothes, makeup (for me), and other "luxury" items. I don't want to have to ask my mom for money, 1. because I know she won't give it me, 2. I don't want to pester her about it when I know were a bit tight right now. more

Voting Question: How exactly does TANF work in Texas?

I have three children from my previous marriage. They're biological father is on their birth certificate and through our divorce a child support case has been opened against him but It has been stuck in the assessment process for a few months. They said they're putting my paperwork into the system. He owes me roughly $8500 of back support. If I apply for TANF would that mean the state is now owed the back child support instead of me? Right now I get $495 total for the kids through his social security disability that counts as his monthly support payment to them. The people at the office said due to that low amount I qualify to recieve TANF but they couldn't answer the question about the back child support becoming the states or not. I'm not looking for rude replys just an answer to that question if someone happens to know. more

Voting Question: Can I file for child support?

Can I file for child support in Texas even if my sons father doesn't have a social security number? (he's illegal) more

Resolved Question: How can I afford full time Child Care for 2 kids?

I'm a single mom with three kids ages 6, 3 and 2. When I was pregnant with the 3rd my husband disappeared. I get no child support and was left with the mortgage, car payments, diapers...everything. I make decent money (50k/year) but with a $1,000/month mortgage, child care for TWO kids and health insurance I'm drowning. I live in Texas, and make too much money to qualify for any financial aide. They go to a family members house now for child care, but I don't think they are getting the stimulation they need to really grow and learn. But, I can't find anything decent for less than $125 week per child. After I pay my bills, I only have about $150 for food/clothes/medical bills/"fun stuff"/school stuff/anything that breaks around the house for two weeks for 4 people. There has got to be a better way....am I supposed to sell my house (which because of the market I'd be lucky to walk away dead even) and live in a crappy apartment in a dangerous neighborhood? Sell my car and walk everywhere in Texas heat with three small kids? Even the nearest grocery store is 4 miles away, with no bus route. I don't have anything fancy, don't shop EVER, am very careful with what I do spend...but i'm still drowning. According to the government i make more than enough though so what am I missing here?????I have thought about a second job, but it's the same issue...what do I do with the kids while I'm working? I don't have family around that will keep them. Is working 8-5, and then also nights and weekends part time my only option? I also thought about having a teen keep the kids, but that puts them in the same situation they are in now. And it's only temporary - until they return to school in the fall.I absolutely filed a child support case with the Attorney General. he was unemployed at the time (and gets paid under the table now) and was only ordered $350/month, for all three, and still doesn't pay. Good info on CCMS, but I do not qualify because I make too much. more

Resolved Question: Are those who say illegals benefit the US, silenced by the net cost being 113 billion?

Looks like with all the talk of what illegals do, pay taxes etc (just like americans) the net result is still a massive burden to Americans. Is this concrete proof that Amenesty will destroy our economy!! The cost of harboring illegal immigrants in the United States is a staggering $113 billion a year -- an average of $1,117 for every “native-headed” household in America -- according to a study conducted by the Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR). The study, a copy of which was provided to FoxNews.com, “is the first and most detailed look at the costs of illegal immigration ever done,” says Bob Dane, director of communications at FAIR, a conservative organization that seeks to end almost all immigration to the U.S. FAIR's opponents in the bitter immigration debate describe the organization as "extremist," though it is regularly called upon to testify before Congress. Groups that support immigration reform immediately attacked FAIR's report and pointed out that it is the polar opposite of the Perryman Report, a 2008 study that found illegal immigration was actually a boon to the American economy. It estimated that illegal immigrants add $245 billion in Gross Domestic Product to the economy and account for 2.8 million jobs. The FAIR report comes as President Obama moves immigration reform to the top of his agenda, and it is likely to be a rallying point for those who oppose the president. At a speech Thursday at American University in Washington, D.C., Obama argued that the entire immigration system is broken and needs sweeping reforms. Among the changes he said are needed is "a path for [farm] workers to earn legal status," which the president's critics called an opening for a new amnesty program. FAIR's report argues that there are two choices in the immigration debate: “One choice is pursuing a strategy that discourages future illegal migration and increasingly diminishes the current illegal alien population through denial of job opportunities and deportations. The other choice,” it says, “would repeat the unfortunate decision made in 1986 to adopt an amnesty that invited continued illegal migration.” Click here to read FAIR's Executive Summary The report states that an amnesty program wouldn’t appreciably increase tax revenue and would cost massive amounts in Social Security and public assistance expenses. An amnesty “would therefore be an accentuation of the already enormous fiscal burden,” the report concludes. The single largest cost to the government of illegal immigration, according to the report, is an estimated $52 billion spent on schooling the children of illegals. “Nearly all those costs are absorbed by state and local governments,’ the report states. Moreover, the study’s breakdown of costs on a state-by-state basis shows that in states with the largest number of illegals, the costs of illegal immigration are often greater than current, crippling budget deficits. In Texas, for example, the additional cost of immigration, $16.4 billion, is equal to the state’s current budget deficit; in California the additional cost of illegal immigration, $21.8 billion, is $8 billion more than the state’s current budget deficit of $13.8 billion; and in New York, the $6.8 billion deficit is roughly two-thirds the $9.5 billion yearly cost of its illegal population, according to Jack Martin, the researcher who completed the study. Click here to see FAIR's state by state costs. “The most important finding of the study is the enormous cost to state and local governments due to lack of enforcement of our immigration laws,” Martin wrote. The report found that the federal government paid $28.6 billion in illegal related costs, and state and local governments paid $84.2 billion on an estimated 13 million undocumented residents. In his speech, Obama estimated that there are 11 million. But FAIR's critics said the report wrongly included American-born children of undocumented workers in its study. “The single biggest 'expense' it attributes to unauthorized immigrants is the education of their children, yet most of these children are native-born, U.S. citizens who will grow up to be taxpaying adults," said Walter Ewing, a senior researcher at the American Immigration Council. "It is disingenuous to count the cost of investing in the education of these children, so that they will earn higher incomes and pay more in taxes when they are adults, as if it were nothing more than a cost incurred by their parents." He added that “the report fails to account for the purchasing power of unauthorized consumers, which supports U.S. businesses and U.S. jobs” and that it “ignores the value added to the U.S. economy by unauthorized workers, particularly in the service sector.” Martin said FAIR expected that criticism, but that because the children are a direct result of illegal immigration, their in more

Resolved Question: Joint custody and welfare?

My husband has joint custody of his son from a previous marriage. No one is a custodial/ non custodial parent. Possession was essentially split 50/50 with no child support being paid to either party. My husband is ordered to provide insurance and his ex is supposed to pay half the premium. I'm a full time student. My husband was diagnosed with cancer and is now receiving disability b/c he can't work. When we went to apply for public assistance for the kids (his son and our son together) for healthcare and heating/cooling costs, we found out that his ex has already been receiving assistance for his son. In Texas, does she have the right to receive 100% of the public assistance that the child is eligible for even if she only supports the child 50% of the time? more

Resolved Question: How can I find out if my son is getting disability checks?

I live in Texas the custodial mother lives in Illinois.I have heard that my son has gotten approved for disability however The Grandmother was put in charge of it so his mother could still receive child support and food stamps..How would I be able to find out if this is true or not?Yes actually it does matter..If he gets it I don't have to pay child support anymore..I have been told that via a phone consultation with an attorney more

Resolved Question: involuntary termination of parental rights in texas?

Has anyone in the state of Texas gone through one of these cases? I am looking to adopt my stepdaughter, have heard different approaches to this. Just wanted to talk to people who might have gone through something like this already. Father has not paid court ordered child support, and has not seen her for the past 6 years. Zero attempt to contact us for we have not moved or changed our numbers. more

Voting Question: Is there a way to seek child support in this case? And if so, how well do i sit?

So my husband and I are going through a divorce. We currently live in Texas, we have 1 child who is roughly a year old. We've been married for a short time however, he is verbally abusive, among other things, and I think it is best we go our separate ways. I currently work full- time and care for our child full-time as well. He does not attend daycare (i work remotely). My soon to be ex-husband has not worked in 2 years. He has 'family' money and therefore has no sense of responsibility and/or need to work and therefore doesn't. All of his 'money' is in a joint account with a family member who just basically transfers money when he needs it. Him and I have kept separate accounts and i've always taken care of my own bills, etc. even when we lived together. Now that we are getting divorced, i don't want any of his possessions (he has MANY). I only want a fair amount of child support per month. He seems to believe i can support our child on my own and doesn't want to come up with a decent compromise as to what he should give me. Most everything he has/owns is in this supporting family member's name and their accounts are linked. Am I going to be able to get child support?I understand he will be ordered to pay - my real question is - will the courts take into account the money he gets from his family? Since he is unemployed? more

Resolved Question: is it hard to get child support and how? plz help!?

im just 15 mother. I know who the father is we already tuck a DNA test. Hes 16 and he has a job. were in texas. more

Resolved Question: Is it hard to get child support and how?

im just 15 mother. I know who the father is we already tuck a DNA test. Hes 16 and he has a job. were in texas. more

Resolved Question: late child support--texas?

My ex-husband and I have a 5 year old son whom he has paid child support on for 2 years. He was recently ordered to pay child support to another woman. He is in the army, so the payment is deducted automatically by the finance dept and I typically get my child support loaded to my card on the 3rd of each month. Three months ago, the amount loaded to my card was the amount the other woman should have received. I made necessary calls and was told it was army/finance problem and to notify my ex. I did so and he told me he resolved the issue. Two months ago, I did not receive child support and he informed me that finance had messed up. Last month I, again, received no payment and spoke with him again. He said that it was 'for sure fixed now.' As of today, I have not received my payment. So, this means I am owed support for July, June, May and partial payment for April. I have tried to be patient and allow him time for the appropriate actions to be taken. However, I have been late on rent three times now and can no longer afford patience. Who should I contact to report that he is late? And have I given an appropriate period of time for action to have been taken to get the issue resolved?I just spoke with him and he sent me a copy of his LES showing that the money was taken as it was supposed to. Also he said that they lowered my child support so that the total would not exceed 50% of his earnings. I know they have to do that, however his child support only equals 1/3 of his total income and the amount they are using is after his allotments-aka bills--are taken out. Is this right? I mean, it's not my fault he has his car payment on allotment-that is still money he is receiving right? Should I be penalized because he has his bills set up to be paid so that he recieves less cash?? more

Resolved Question: What are the chances of a custodial parent moving out of state?

My ex and I share custody of our 2 children (9 and 11). She has 80% I have 20%. Over the last year my custody continues to increase. I have just discovered over the last month or so that my ex and children have been evicted from 1 residence (back in March) and are now being evicted for a second time (at the end of July). I see my children every weekend and during the week when I visit them at school during their lunch time. Their principal called me in for a meeting a few weeks ago and informed me that their attendance issues are now interfering with their grades. (Not to mention they ALL still sleep in the same bed in their 1 bedroom apartment- they have their own room at my house). So I applied for full custody and the court date is about 2 weeks away. She informed me that she is petitioning to move to Texas to live with her parents because she "can't make it here". What are they chances they will let her move away (again- yes, again. She moved away one time before and she couldn't make it their either so she moved back, applied for welfare and is now going through a welfare fraud audit because se was accepting state aid and support from me without telling ether entity- double-dipping pretty much.) Thank you- serious answers only, please.I have all reports from the school all the way to 2008 (apparently it has benlike like for 2 1/2 school years and the school is ust now tellin me about it). And the fraud audit, well... she didn' even show up for that court date. But I have all the minutes and the judge tat ordered it made sure tat results were going to be sent to my home. Everything is included, she just sounds so sure of herself that she is going to leave. The kids are living out of boxes right now at her home. Her confidence makes me nervous. more

Resolved Question: What are the chances of a custodial parents moving out of state?

My ex and I share custody of our 2 children (9 and 11). She has 80% I have 20%. Over the last year my custody continues to increase. I have just discovered over the last month or so that my ex and children have been evicted from 1 residence (back in March) and are now being evicted for a second time (at the end of July). I see my children every weekend and during the week when I visit them at school during their lunch time. Their principal called me in for a meeting a few weeks ago and informed me that their attendance issues are now interfering with their grades. (Not to mention they ALL still sleep in the same bed in their 1 bedroom apartment- they have their own room at my house). So I applied for full custody and the court date is about 2 weeks away. She informed me that she is petitioning to move to Texas to live with her parents because she "can't make it here". What are they chances they will let her move away (again- yes, again. She moved away one time before and she couldn't make it their either so she moved back, applied for welfare and is now going through a welfare fraud audit because se was accepting state aid and support from me without telling ether entity- double-dipping pretty much.) Thank you- serious answers only, please.I actually OVERPAID child support. (By several thousands of dollars) That is why she is going through the audit. She can't manage money at all wich is why she is getting evicted.and I pay for her car payment every month and on time- so tere is no reason why A.) she can't get a job and HELP support herself, because I do enough on my part and B.) and most importantly there is no reason for my children to be late to school OR no go at all. That has nothing to do with me giving her money. more

Resolved Question: How can 2 states (georgia & texas) go after me for child support and arrears?

I already have my wages garnished by Georgia for child support and arrears. Now Georgia contacted Texas for child support arrears even though they are already collecting through wage garnishment. Georgia will not talk to me saying its an out of state case. And Texas AG will only listen to Georgia. I have all my receipts. And my ex-wife will not cooperate. Can I sue Texas AG to back off since I am already paying Georgia? more

Resolved Question: Can a child support case be reopened after being closed for 7 years in texas?

Can I reopen a child support case that the state has closed? I'm owed 18 years of back child support. The deadbeat dad is a veteran who receives full benefits and has recently been awarded a loan for a home. He brags that he gets $2700 a month in a government check. Over the past 18 years he was incarerated several times which made it impossible to collect from him. What can I do to collect this back support that is oved. I received $49 once 15 years ago for my son who is now 26 and could really use the money owed to him. more

Voting Question: When a child has CHIP health insurance, is the cost added to a child support?

order to reimburse the government? Does anyone know how much more? My husband has a review and his ex has put their child on Texas CHIP. more

Resolved Question: Agreed Civial Divorce Questions?

Me and my wife have agreed to divorce and we are doing it unlike the savage animal route most people decide but we have a question In the State of Texas can we seperate without having eather party pay child support? more

Resolved Question: Out Of State Custody Battle?

I will give a little information about my situation. I use to stay in Kentucky with my three kids. I have two kids with the man I've been with for the past five years and a daughter with another man...My boyfriend signed the birth certificate as my daughters father. Loves her unconditionally and doesn't turn his nose up at her because she's not his. Well back in January, I told the other guy about his daughter. Since finding out, he has only seen her a handful of times. Hasn't bought her diapers or anything that will show me that he wants to be there for her. A week before I moved to Texas, I had to threaten him in order for him to spend time with his daughter...and he came around to pick her up...thats really it.... I'm back home in Texas now. I'm living with my Dad until housing comes through for me. I am waiting for a call back from walmart to see when I will start working. I am happy that I'm moving forward instead of backwards with my life. Here in the state of Texas, they want to know who the fathers are so I can get better state help. I am still with the father of my first two kids...but he is still in Kentucky. We agreed to 350 a month for the two we have, but if he slips up on a payment I will file for child support on him. I know his social by heart so it can easily be done. Now on to my daughters father, I tell him whats up...I'm not going to lie, I called him a deadbeat because thats what he is. He has done nothing for my daughter and I wasn't about to to keep my mouth shut about it anymore. Now that child support is in talk, he wants to suddenly fight for full custody over my daughter (she is ten months old). He has called me names from "*****" to "nasty ho". He has called me psychotic and says I'm not responsible enough to take care of my daughter. What the hell have I been doing? I have a three year old, a two year old and then my ten month old. How am I not responsible? I was at a stand still in kentucky. I'm moving forward here in Texas. I moved for them. My babies father is a 33 year old man, who lives with his mom and two sisters in two bedroom apartment. He doesn't have a steady job but he DJ's at a club every now and then. If this custody battle does go into full swing, who do you think they will be in favor the most? What actions will they take? I'm in Texas and he is in Kentucky. I have plenty of people that will vouch that I am a good parent and alot of people know about my babies father and how he didn't help with **** at all. A part of me is scared I will lose my daughter because he and his family will make up all kinds of lies about me. I only met his mom once and she already is saying she will take my daughter from me. His family hasn't done nothing compared to mine. I need an opinion. Thank you.I did get permission to leave with my kids. Neither one didn't care...The last thing I wanted to do was get child support from them...My boyfriend helps with his kids and if I have to get my daughters father for child support in order for him to do something, I will do it. I'm not a bad person, but I won't let my daughter live in such a dysfunctional household. Her grandmother is a chronic drunk and acts crazy when she is under the influence. He has called me complaining countless times.I did get permission to leave with my kids. Neither one didn't care...The last thing I wanted to do was get child support from them...My boyfriend helps with his kids and if I have to get my daughters father for child support in order for him to do something, I will do it. I'm not a bad person, but I won't let my daughter live in such a dysfunctional household. Her grandmother is a chronic drunk and acts crazy when she is under the influence. He has called me complaining countless times. more

Voting Question: What To Expect From An Out Of State Custody Battle?

I will give a little information about my situation. I use to stay in Kentucky with my three kids. I have two kids with the man I've been with for the past five years and a daughter with another man...My boyfriend signed the birth certificate as my daughters father. Loves her unconditionally and doesn't turn his nose up at her because she's not his. Well back in January, I told the other guy about his daughter. Since finding out, he has only seen her a handful of times. Hasn't bought her diapers or anything that will show me that he wants to be there for her. A week before I moved to Texas, I had to threaten him in order for him to spend time with his daughter...and he came around to pick her up...thats really it.... I'm back home in Texas now. I'm living with my Dad until housing comes through for me. I am waiting for a call back from walmart to see when I will start working. I am happy that I'm moving forward instead of backwards with my life. Here in the state of Texas, they want to know who the fathers are so I can get better state help. I am still with the father of my first two kids...but he is still in Kentucky. We agreed to 350 a month for the two we have, but if he slips up on a payment I will file for child support on him. I know his social by heart so it can easily be done. Now on to my daughters father, I tell him whats up...I'm not going to lie, I called him a deadbeat because thats what he is. He has done nothing for my daughter and I wasn't about to to keep my mouth shut about it anymore. Now that child support is in talk, he wants to suddenly fight for full custody over my daughter (she is ten months old). He has called me names from "bitch" to "nasty ho". He has called me psychotic and says I'm not responsible enough to take care of my daughter. What the hell have I been doing? I have a three year old, a two year old and then my ten month old. How am I not responsible? I was at a stand still in kentucky. I'm moving forward here in Texas. I moved for them. My babies father is a 33 year old man, who lives with his mom and two sisters in two bedroom apartment. He doesn't have a steady job but he DJ's at a club every now and then. If this custody battle does go into full swing, who do you think they will be in favor the most? What actions will they take? I'm in Texas and he is in Kentucky. I have plenty of people that will vouch that I am a good parent and alot of people know about my babies father and how he didn't help with shit at all. A part of me is scared I will lose my daughter because he and his family will make up all kinds of lies about me. I only met his mom once and she already is saying she will take my daughter from me. His family hasn't done nothing compared to mine. I need an opinion. Thank you. more

Resolved Question: can I file child support on someone in jail in another state?

My son is two years old and i have been trying to get an address on his father for child support. If i found out he is in jail in louisiana and I stay in texas can I still file child support and if so will i receive any payments? more

Resolved Question: i live in texas and make 3500 a month how much would i have to pay in child support?

Voting Question: whats rights does a non-biological father have?

I was married to my ex wife for 6 years we were going through a divorce, at which time I was paying child support. I was ordered back to court because my ex suddenly realized that I might not be the father of our 4 year old daughter. I took a paternity test at her lawyers office. Which I now realize was a huge mistake. I signed some paper work and left. I get paper work at the courthouse the day of our final divorce proceedings stating I am not the biological father of my daughter. We go before the judge and she says that since I am not the biological father of my daughter, and the biological mother does not want me to be a part of my daughters life I have no rights to her any longer. I couldn't afford to hire an attorney because my ex wife had me fired from my job because she lied to my boss. Knowing I could not afford an attorney, and her father and mother have money to pay for her legal fees, and the lawyer, and judge were friends In Denton County family court I was railroaded out of my daughters life. My daughter was 4 years old I am now remarried and financially able to fight for my daughter. However, I need to know what rights I have in the state of Texas? I live in Tarrant County Texas. more

Resolved Question: Brother passed without a will?

My Brother passed this month without a will and there are many questions. He had been unemployed for a lengthy time so he had few assets and substantial debt. He lived in Texas. He is divorced and still owes the ex about 15k in child support that the state administers... the ex gets his irs tax refunds etc... He lived with mom, and his possessions in her house might sell for around $1200.00 He had many debts... my guess is around 10k to co's such as citibank, home depot etc.. He has a car loan that is owed about what the vehicle is worth. He had under $200.00 in his checking/savings account. Mom went to the bank last week where she also has an account and they gave her the money in those accounts. ( they said they could do this because the amount was under a certain limit- I think her name was on the checking account) Questions: #1 Do we have to go to probate court and create an estate? #2 Might the state sue the family to form an estate if only to prove there are no assets for the child support? #3 Might the creditors sue the family to form an estate? It seems to me they would look at his credit report and see the large debt and be mindful that funeral expenses - that mom paid for - come off the top, and determine that it's probably not worth the effort, but that's just a guess. #4 As for medical bills...Should we expect to be sued to form an estate for this? he was in the hospital for several days before passing, and with all the testing and ICU care, the bill is probably well north of 30k- I don't know what the "payment due from patient" is yet. . It occurs to me that they might not have access to his credit report and will want to see if there are assets. #5 Does selling, or giving away his possessions, or contacting the note holder of his vehicle to come get the car, or receiving the money from his accounts at the bank, or sending death certificates to creditors - which she has done- make the mother an executor by default with further obligations? Thanks in advance for your answer. Also, please do not answer unless you have experience with these issues. more

Resolved Question: what can i do about this for the sake of my child?

i live in texas. my sons father pays child support and visits my son very little. in the past 2 months, my son came home with a severe diaper rash that turned into a fungal infection. then at a later time he came home with a fever which he had to be hospitalized for because he caught a virus called adeno virus, and was at the hospital for 75 hours... 3 weeks later he came home with his hands, lips, and feet swollen and ended up at the hospital again. i feel my ex isnt watching him correctly and i havent let him take my son since. my ex hasnt asked me for my son and id like some advice bout what i can do before he wants to take my son again. more

Resolved Question: who has custody and what can i do to move?

My mom told me that my father signed me away when he agreed to pay child support. I really want to move in with my dad (in Texas) we live in Oklahoma. I am 16 and my parents are legally married and my mother is common law married to someone else. I called the court house to see who had custody and the court clerk told me that the only paper she had was a child support paper and that it refered to my mother as my custodial parent because i live with her but their was never court to settle who has sole custody.. so could I just leave and go live with my father or do we need to go to court? my mother told me that she would take everything out of my room except a bed, bible, and a few clothes if she found out i am trying to take her to court. and she told me she would make me quit my job. I just want to leave in peace.. any suggestions? more

Voting Question: Christian Dads and Moms who pay or receive Child Support & pay Tithes. Do you pay Tithes on your C.S.?

***** I understand if this is too long and if you don't want to read all of it, it probably means you're not that concerned anyway. Which is fine. I do the same thing at times... I pay child support to my ex for my 2 children [(8 yr old girl & 6 yr boy) (going on 6 years divorced)]. I currently pay and have always paid (since I committed to Tithing) tithe on the child support. Side Notes: (to get an idea of the situation, bc this is not the 1st time someone has asked this question and alot of people want more detail) *The C.S. is and always has been automatically deducted from my check. So it's not like I pay it when I can. I have always paid it and have always been current. *I do see my kids as the orders state, so it's not like I am paying for 2 kids I don't see. *I live in Texas so they take 25% of my check (net) and I pay for their med, dental, & vision insurance as well as half of all their med, dental, & vision care bills. *They have their own rooms, clothes, entertainment, and lives at my house when they stay (they don't pack their bags to come to Daddy's house) *My ex is a Christian, (or devoted church goer) but we weren't very good tithe givers when we were married, so I do not know if she pays tithes or not. We DO NOT have a good enough relationship to discuss this matter with each other. I don't want to turn this into a debate on whether paying tithes is right or wrong, or on gross or net... I have thoroughly researched the bible on this and have come to my own conclusion, that God is not going to punish you either way, but will bless you. So please only answer with your opinion if you have experience on with paying or receiving Child Support and you DO pay your tithes, whether you pay or are receiving child support. *I am well aware of the "First Fruits." *I am a Christian (non-denominational) - meaning, I have faith in our Lord Jesus Christ and I do my best to follow GOD's word and NOT what I'm told by others. BUT, I do enjoy other Christian's interpretations of the bible so that I can get different perspectives on how others interpret the bible for themselves. I do not depend on tithes to get me to heaven, but I do it to support my church. I do it a little different then how they preach to do it, but like I said, I researched this for myself instead of having someone else tell me how to do it. But the bibl more

Resolved Question: Child Support garnishment?

My Fiance' has 5 children which he pays child support. He pays out of the state of texas which women are entitled to half of the man's paycheck and or unemployment benefits. I would like to know whether or not I would become responsible for his child support if I married him and took his last name. I am moving back to Arkansas, which is where I am originally from, and plan to marry there. Are the laws in regards to spouse and child support different or are they same?? How would I file taxes married? or would I have to keep my last name? I am aware that having joint finances gives his exes the opportunity to take my income as well. Would my wages be garnished? Can someone give me some legal advice on how I would go about my income without worrying about whether or not money will be taken from me. more

Resolved Question: Do I qualify for a hardship drivers license in the state of Texas?

okay i'm 15 years old, my mom's a student in college who doesn't have a job, she's single (dad divorced my mom about 2 years ago and isn't around anymore) the only money we get is child support, I'm the oldest male in the household, i'm about to be employed and supporting the family, my mom is constantly gone at study sessions, lectures, and school classes, her school usually starts at the same time as mine but she has to leave early for parking, traffic and etc, this past year she was always late to classes because she had to take me and my little brothers to school, youth group for church, take them home from school, doctors appointments, and counseling sessions, she only has like 2 years left in school, but her school hours and etc enable her to drive us to the places we need to be. Do I qualify? ***Please don't answer if you aren't sure or live in a different state, hardship license qualifications are different according to the state in which you preside*** more

Voting Question: LEGAL ADVICE?? Can I get in trouble with the UCMJ or the Army??? Please read....?

I am trying to get a divorce. My EX (who is still legally my husband) and I have both signed a separation agreement on May 7, 2010. We were living in Maryland at the time, and I have moved back to Texas on May 9, 2010. I know I have to wait 6 months to file for divorce according to Texas law. I have since then met some one whom I love very much. He treats me great, treats my children wonderfully, and is very compassionate and understanding of my situation. I want to move in with him. Now here lies the problem, my EX said that I can get in trouble with the military according to the UCMJ law because I am still legally a dependant of his. He stated that it is considered 'adultery" and that I can be punished... Is this at all true? Can it affect my custody? Can it affect the child support? (he SAID he isn't going to fight for custody, but I don't trust him) He also has one count of child abuse against him from 2006 in Colorado... please help. I can give more info if it will help me get the right answers!!! more

Resolved Question: How do I become an Emancipated Minor in Texas if I can't move out?

I'm seventeen years old and have had a job for five months now. I live with my step father and my mother, both have failed to support me. The situation with my step father has become emotionally abusive and controlling, and my mother will not and cannot do anything. Moving in with my real father is out of the question. I understand the laws on Removing Disabilities of Minors: I don't need links to Texas laws. I have a form, but I've read that I have to be living on my own to even get a HEARING. How is this possible when I can't even let them know I'm filing to become emancipated? If I can't move out without their permission, how the heck am I supposed to become Emancipated? Moving out is not the problem. I can do that, AFTER I become emancipated. But I've talked to the local police, and they WILL pursue me if my parents file a runaway child report, which they will. And they will NOT give me permission to live on my own. What do I do? more

Resolved Question: What can I do to get my shild support lowered!!!!?

I live in the state of texas and i pay child support. I nhave never missed or been late on a payment, but i am now married and have another child and i am the sole provider in my household. The child support office raised my child support saying the reason was becouse i have a child living in the house im expected to work at least 40 hrs a week.........that is not the case i work part time and I am a full time stuident at the moment..they said i can go to court to dispute it but im not even sure that it will matter..........what should i do more

Voting Question: Please help me find out if i can i get married?

I'm 18 year old that wants to get married to an 15 year old in Texas. We have full support from both her parents and mine. Basically her parents have known for all my life and we have an amazing relationship together. Her dad ran into some health issues and isn't going to live for long and since she's an only child his last wish is to witness her daughter getting married. I want to make his dream true but i just want to know if this is legal ? more