What should I do???

according to the court custody papers in June of 1997 in the state of Tx. my son's father has visitation on the first, third and fifth weekends of every month. Since this was put in place, he has not called, sent cards, or written on birthdays, christmas, etc. It has been 4 1/2 years since this went into effect. Should I pursue any legal avenues? And if so , what?
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Dee

[MySonsMom]

I would suggest getting this back in court and gaining full custody of the child with liberal supervised visitation for the Father. This way, he can't just show up one day and take the child when the child doesn't even know him. You would be totally freaking out as I would.

File for full custody based on the fact that the Father is absent, and it would be the best thing for the child. (To keep him safe)

Good luck!

I also live in the state of Texas. I have to agree with the reply you received urging you to take action. Just to give you a heads up on what could happen if you do not. I went to court in 1991 and was awarded custody of both of my sons. At that time they were 3 & 1. The father was not a part of their lives for about 3 years. Then he moved to the dallas area and visited about once every 3 or 4 months. Constantly telling them he would come and pick them up and then would not show. This last year in August of 2000 both of my sons decided they wanted to live with their father. Being the age of 10 & 12 the state law sites they are old enough to make their own decisions about where they want to live. Needless to say we went to court. I could not have found a worse lawyer. I left there with neither of my children. Note also he was in arrears for 43,000 in child support. There was nothing done about that either. The child support I am now obligated to pay is deducted from his arrears. Doesn't quite sound fair, does it. Is pretty unbelievable what can happen. I have found the law does not protect you. You have to protect yourself. For the safety of yourself and your childs wellfare I also suggest you take action. Keep a very accurate diary of everything that happens. Never know when you may need it.