signing over custody

[janM]

We live in Ohio. Last week my son's ex-girlfriend and my son signed a letter (and filed it with the court) stating that she wishes to sign over (temporary-we'll see) custody of their son to his father (my son). There will be a hearing in a few weeks. Does anyone know what they can expect at this hearing? Will they look into my son's situation even though she wants the child with his father (thank goodness, it's way better than her situation)? Would they do a home check or anything? Anyone experienced this before?
-ps, he has the boy with him now almost all the time as her present home is not suitable for the child

 

[MySonsMom]

Just a question.

There is obviously something you are hiding about the Father of this child. (your son) Why are you so concerned about anyone looking into him? The courts will have to determine the best interest of the child. Evendentally it is not with the Mother. They will of course want the child to be with the other biological parent if possible, but what are you hiding regarding your son?

MSM

 

[janM]

my son

I wasn't hiding anything, it's just that he is on layoff from his job right now (getting unemployment benefits). I suggested to him he may have to get a job to support the boy better and to look better to the court. Also he is living in our basement which is not quite finished (he shares a bathroom and our kitchen). It's not a luxury apartment but he's a good dad (young, he's 20, she's almost 19) and the boy behaves beautifully with him, with mom he has tantrums and whines. She also calls him names and has always lived with (and off of) other people and has moved the boy around a lot. They have tried living together but it never lasts long. We are relieved she is doing this for the boy.

 

[MySonsMom]

With what you said, your son should be alright. He may be advised to look harder for another job, and get a place to live...But as long as the child is in no danger, and she cannot prove that he is unfit or a danger for the boy..he should be alright.

Good luck!

 

[janM]

They had the hearing today, it was basically the judge wanting to know why she was giving temporary custody to the father; she said at the time of filing she was living in a friend's house that wasn't suitable for the boy (she is now with other friends) and that he would have a more stable home with his father and grandparents. My son now has a job (thank goodness), she doesn't. He asked her how long she would need to get things in order, she said 6 months, so they have to go back in December for a review.
My son says before they change custody at all he would want someone to inspect the residence to make sure it would be suitable for the boy.
One other thing he is doing right: he has been dating a young lady who knows about (and has seen) the boy and loves kids but my son won't introduce her to his son unless he's sure that their relationship is going somewhere. This is in contrast to the mom, who has had several young men in and out of the boy's life (he's 2-1/2). He says he won't even live with someone until he's ready to marry. Once bitten, twice shy... I'm very proud of the way he's matured and has accepted his responsibility.