Child Support

[addy777]

I was divorced 2 years ago. My ex-wife moved out of state with both of my children. I currently pay her 26.5% of my income, and she constantly wants more. I am trying to provide medical for my daughters but she refuses to give my there Social Security numbers and demands payment for her medical. I also never see my children and when I try to see them I can only see the oldest one for no more than a month. Since she moved last december I have seen my 2 year old for a total of 3 hours. And I have seen my 4 year old for 1 week, and then 1 month. I cannot afford the tickets to fly them round trip and myself also, and the mother does not help. How am I supposed to see them? I pay my Ex so much money and I dont see my children. I am a good father and I feel that I should have more rights. Anytime I call to talk to my girls the line is busy, and My ex never lets them call me even though I have sent calling cards. No she wants money for day care but has failed to send me proof of a day care bill. What are my rights as a father? Should I get a lawyer, but what good would that do if I have no rights? Any advise would be helpful.

 

[usmcfamily]

The issues you are raising will need to be resolved in court - yes, you will need an attorney. Father's do have rights, but it will take some effort on your part legally to have them enforced. Continue to pay the COURT ORDERED amount of child support - the extras such as daycare, etc would be nice of you to provide but as she is unwilling to cooperate by providing you the documentation you want she obviously doesn't want it that badly. I applaud your desire to assist with those costs, but with no effort on her part it seems somewhat pointless for you to provide. Most importantly, keep yourself out of arrears by making sure to make all payments on time - this will help when you make it to court to resolve the other issues.
As to retaining an attorney - I suggest you contact a father's rights advocacy group in your area (try an internet search to find one) - they can put you in touch with attorneys who work specifically with these cases and that is what you need.
On the matter of insurance - as she is unwilling to provide the SS #'s to you but you do want the coverage for your children I would suggest a trick we used in the offices I have worked for in the insurance dept --- have her provide the SS#'s directly to the insurance company herself and that will avoid her having to disclose them to you and will allow your children to have medical coverage. You will need to arrange this with a cust. serv. rep at the company. Granted it would be easier if she would just give it to you, but what is more important -- her acting like a grown-up or your children having health care?