Custody Order

[DecentDad]

Hi,

Sounds like a good start.

I agree with Kitty C's warning... don't fall for some legal term that sounds equitable.  "Joint legal" is more theoretical than enforceable.  Definitely grab it, but don't put much value in it.

Vague legal terminology leads to more problems.  Y'all want to get rid of terms like "reasonable" and "liberal" because it's up for interpretation.

If you secure 40% (or more) time, that should be enough to make it very tough for either of you to move.  Else, if you can't negotiate that much time, some states will look at high frequency of contact as de facto joint custody (e.g., if you only have 30%, but you see child 4 or 5 times a week).

Ask your attorney some tough questions, and feel free to post here to get everyone's collective wisdom (through experience and many mistakes).

You're indeed in an uphill situation, but it doesn't mean that the first offer is the one you should grab.  :)

Keep delivering the good news!

Best,
DD

[wendl]

Be carefull, still retain this atty so he can review what she is trying to do, if she really wants a set parenting plan (liberal visitation is a joke) then makes sure to specify EVERYTHING like when the child is of school age, summer breaks, school breaks, holidays birthdays EVERYTHING. Drop off pick up times etc.

Like Kitty said --joint legal means the BOTH parents are suppose to do many things drs etc jointly but rarely happens, just looks good on paper.

Read everything you can on this site, also come into chat.