Is this fair?

[Lorley]

What is the name of your state? Missouri

My husband has joint custody of his two children. According to the parenting agreement, we have them 1/3 or more of the time. They spend most of their summer with us and any days off of school while their mom is at work. He pays full childsupport, provides medical inssurance, pays half of any extra medical and we buy their clothes and everything else that they need to live at our house.

Their mom is not abusive, although it is a stressful household. We would love to have them more of the time and if not, pay less expenses.

What do you think, is it worth pursuing?

 

[stealth2]

What does Dad actually want to petition for?

 

[Lorley]

What does Dad actually want to petition for?

As I mentioned their mom's house is very unstable the kids call here crying because they get into fights and she can't handle them/it.

We would like for the arrangement to be switched around. Their mom have them 1/3 the time and us have them 2/3. She would not be stressed out as much if she had them less. She would be a better visitation mom and the kids would have a more stable home. They are so happy here and safe. Ages 6 and 8.

The initial trial cost was over $20,000 and the judge didn't even listen to the guardian's recomendation that the kids spend more time with their dad, than their mom.

Hope the added details help.

 

[stealth2]

Well, unless Mom agrees to a change in custody, Dad can expect to shell out a like sum with no guarantees.

 

[Lorley]

Well, unless Mom agrees to a change in custody, Dad can expect to shell out a like sum with no guarantees.

That's what I thought. What kind of things could change that, do you think? Like, what would have to change before we would have a really good chance? For instance: their mom becomes a drug addict, which she isn't, but for example sake.

 

[stealth2]

She'd need to be proven unfit - abusive, not providing a safe home for the kids, neglecting them in various ways. It's not an easy thing to do.

 

[Lorley]

Doesn't seem fair that one judge can make an unconcerned decision and it stick with you forever. ugh.

Thanks so much for you help and advice.