custody questions for single mom - help!

[truebluemd]

The bolded section is not true in Maryland. The court may suggest it, but it doesn't just automatically order it.

Then it varies from county to county then, because in my county, mediation and parenting class is required before a merits hearing. The court, in my county, can waive it though.

 

[truebluemd]

You need to go to your countys family law court. They should have a lot of reading material that discusses their process with regard to custody/child support. See if they have a family law clinic that offers free legal advice from lawyers.

 

[wileybunch]

I'm not sure exactly what Dad is asking for myself. Basically, he wants the kids 50% of the time, or any given time that he wants to see them. I am trying to figure out some kind of schedule that works with our odd shifts, but something constant or "regular" for the kids, so the daily routine doesn't get too confusing ..... I'm simply trying to find out more information about this custody issue, as me and my Ex are trying to work something out between ourselves. Unfortunately, we are having a hard time trying to come up with a good compromise -- this is when I ask if court is a waste of time ???

Since you said Dad's schedule changes and you also feel he wants the kids on a sort of beck and call arrangement that you've not liked, why don't you have DAD come up with a suggested schedule and go from there? Sometimes it's easier to sit back and complain, but maybe if he puts together a schedule himself, he'll agree with himself more.