Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Hi team

My Ex Wife and I have been divorced for over 4 years now. We recently just changed our custody to joint everything. My question is I started dating a woman amlost a year ago now and things are going great so we are spending more time with each other. She has two children of her own. My Ex doesn't want my daughter spending time with her or her children because she is afraid she'll get attached and if it doesn't work out my daughters feelings will be hurt. I was very careful in the begining not to even let her know I was dating but now that we have been dating awhile I trust her and have intruduced her to my daughter and we have spent time with her childrens as well (Whale Watch Ect). My ex doesn't like this and is telling me that if I don't keep my daughter away from her that she will take me to court again and change our current agreement. Can she tell me to do that? And or will a Judge see that she is in the right?


Asked on 10/03/11, 9:20 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
Richard Kell Law Office of Richard B. Kell

There is nothing wrong with your daughter spending time with your new girlfriend (and her children) as long as your daughter doesn't start confusing her new role in your life with that of her mom's. How you have described your Ex's jealous behavior is actually quite common, but it is NOT by itself grounds for a Modification of Custody.

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Answered on 10/03/11, 9:37 am
Christopher Vaughn-Martel Charles River Law Partners, LLC

I agree with the previous attorney. That being said, just because the conduct described by you does not appear to be grounds for a modification, my strong advice would be for you to speak with an attorney and be ready in the event that your ex does decide to file or threaten to file court papers. You can feel free to contact our office at 617-357-4898.

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Answered on 10/03/11, 10:25 am


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