child support and custody

My fiance and I just broke up and I left town and moved back in with my mom. He lives 400 miles away and is the father of my 2 kids ages 4 and 2. He doesn't want to go through the state of ohio for child support. He wants us to do it between us because he wants the kids half the year. Now he asks if he can have the kids for a couple weeks while i find a job and a apartment, but could he turn around while he has the girls and file for full custody saying that i abandoned the kids because i left them with him? What are my rights as a non married mother of 2? Someone please help!!!!!

[MySonsMom]

I'm not positive but I think he can. If you were to ask my advice, I would say don't allow him to take them and get down and file the papers. (that is if you want the kids to live with you) I would be very cautious right now, even if you do have a good relationship with your ex. See if your parents can help out on finding an apartment and such..I would advise you not to send them back with the father, not right now at least. Get this custody papers filed..good luck!

[usmcfamily]

Yes, as their biological parent he CAN and probably WILL file a custody suit against you....you need to get yourself an attorney (try your state bar association - ask for a family law specialist) and file for full legal custody of your children. If you can't afford an attorney right now (I know how breaking up/moving home/etc can drain the $$$)then PLEASE contact Legal Aid and arrange to use their services! You need to get this done as soon as you can - yesterday would be good - because if he were to file before you do then you will be on the defensive and in custody cases it isn't the easiest side to be on! Your absolute best bet is to get an attorney today (remember the first consultation is usually free and a lot of attorneys will work with you on payment plans, etc.....please don't let money stand between you and your children)
On the issue of support - DO NOT let him pull this one on you! Definately take the collection through the state - tax dollars pay for this service and you should definately use it - - the reason I say this is if you "work it out between you" you have no LEGAL way to hold him to it - if you go to the courts and get a court order of support, though, you have means of enforcement. Talking you into not using the system leaves him and EASY way out of supporting your children!!!! Don't fall for this one!
Get yourself an attorney now - he is doing some mighty fast talking and I would hate to see him pull one on you!
Prayers be with you