Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

What rights does the father have?

I am married to a divorced father and he has 1 child that is 7 yrs old. We have major issues with his ex-wife all the time. We had my step-son for the holidays and we usually only get him a weekend at a time. Well, she called everyday and we feel that is not right. Everytime she calls he gets depressed because she makes him feel bad and trys her best to make him want to go home. Do we have to let her talk to him when she calls? This is a very controversial divorce and the my husband and his ex-wife do not get along at all. What can we do for the best of the son?


Asked on 1/08/02, 2:43 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jean Sudduth Jean Sudduth, Attorney at law

Re: What rights does the father have?

My suggestion is to call the court and find aout what the name of the parenting class is that they suggest or require. In Tarrant county it is "Kids in the Middle". Children need to be protected from the animosity that their parents hold for one another. If the other party is unreasonable the best thing is that the other party is. Without laying out blame expalin in simple terms that the child is not responsible, that the parents are angry at each other but not at him. Asking for an order to attend parenting classes is fine,but both parents should attend. Children of bitter divorce need love and understanding - Trust me on this. Kids are fearful and guilty in their own minds if the case goes to court. All of this advice changes if you suspect physical abuse. Think of things to make a kid feel better about himself. Good luck.

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Answered on 1/16/02, 11:51 pm


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