child decision rights

In Massachusetts...
Does a custodial parent(w/joint legeal custody) have the right to make all decisions for the dependent children then bill the non-custodial father for his portion of the expenses?
Specifically...If a child needs baces, does the non-custodial father (w/ joint legal custody) have the right to be provided with treatement plans, costs and insurance coverage in order to help make the decision about a child having braces. Obviously the child needs them, but the mother feels she cn just go have braces put on and then tell me how much I have to pay her for them. I don't even know who the doctor is, to contact about setting up payment plans. I don't even know what kind of treatment the child needs, nor do I know how much and what the mother's insurance covers, so I don't know what the true balance will be. My ex says that she has been told that I have no say in this decision.

HELP!

[MySonsMom]

Well normally, in an ideal situation; you should be consulted about major/expensive decisions regarding the child(ren). But nonetheless, your child needs braces. I would suggest that you calmly ask your X what doctor she sees; and then with your *joint custody* status call them and work something out with them. You can obtain dental/medical records, and see if you can set up a payment plan. And if your X pays for the process, then make payments to her.

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*There is no love, like the unconditional love of a Mother*

-I am not an Attorney, any advice given is strictly advice-

Joint means joint you two are supposed to make major decsions together. Maybe you could try communicating by letter or a third party, If you have trouble talking together.

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by MySonsMom:
[b]Well normally, in an ideal situation; you should be consulted about major/expensive decisions regarding the child(ren). But nonetheless, your child needs braces. I would suggest that you calmly ask your X what doctor she sees; and then with your *joint custody* status call them and work something out with them. You can obtain dental/medical records, and see if you can set up a payment plan. And if your X pays for the process, then make payments to her.
[/b]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yes the child needs baces, but what is their treatment plan? There has been no second opion and they plan to pull teeth. Is this absolutley necessary? There is insurance coverage for both extractions and orthodontics. I am not allowed to see the insurance plan, so I don't know the details. I have been told the cost is $4500 and I will need to pay $1500, period. My ex in the past has taken me to court to collect money for a dental bill the insurance company has already paid. Obviously I have no reason to trust her word about what the insurance company is paying.
Do you still think I should just let her do what she says is best and pay as she requests?

[MySonsMom]

I would suggest getting the doctors name and talking with him regarding what is going on...The plan and the costs. Your X needs to supply you with copies of bills if she wants you to pay them..Without them you can refuse to pay until you see the proof. So I would start with her, if she will not give you any info simply tell her that you will not be doing anything until you are advised of what is going on...with proof of her intentions. Good luck! (Don't pay her anything until she gives you copies, that is required..)

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*There is no love, like the unconditional love of a Mother*

-I am not an Attorney, any advice given is strictly advice-