Legal Question in Family Law in Texas

My wife took my 3 year old son over state lines w/o discussing with me.

We live in Texas and a few days ago my wife took our 3-year old son and went to her parents house in New York.

I found out that she was leaving when I showed up to our marriage counseling appointment. She had someone drop off a letter to our therapist and asked the therapist to read me the letter. The letter stated that she would return in 3 weeks.

What are my options? Is it legal for my wife to take our son like this?

Not sure if this matters, but I have never abused or cheated on her. She did have a 3-month online affair with an ex-boyfriend this year (after we were in marriage counseling).

I'm a bit lost. Any advice is appreciated.


Asked on 7/03/09, 8:45 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

James Grissom Law Office of James P. Grissom

Re: My wife took my 3 year old son over state lines w/o discussing with me.

Looks like your wife is going home to NY to file for divorce. this will require you to contest the divorce in NY at corresponding expese. If you want to preempt her efforts, see a lawyer about filing for divorce in TX. ggod luck.

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Answered on 7/03/09, 9:56 pm
Sarah Grosse Sarah Grosse, Esquire

Re: My wife took my 3 year old son over state lines w/o discussing with me.

I don't think the previous answer addressed the question. I don't practice family law, and I am not licensed to practice in Texas. The only reason I am chiming in is that I feel bad for your situation, that you feel lost, and the other attorney just told you to start a divorce battle. Very insensitive and unresponsive, in my opinion.

What you wanted to know is can your wife take your son without your permission. To my limited knowledge, a parent may take their child wherever they please as long as there is not a court order prohibiting them from doing so. Such orders would be issued in a divorce proceeding.

Perhaps she has just gone to her parent's house for a while to get a break or to gain some perspective, and she will be back. You are already doing the right thing by seeking counseling.

You should probably go ahead and consult with a divorce attorney to make sure you protect your rights and know what your options are if your wife decides not to come back. I wish you the best.

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Answered on 7/03/09, 10:14 pm
Edgardo Baez The Baez Law Firm, P.C.

Re: My wife took my 3 year old son over state lines w/o discussing with me.

In Texas, there is no prohibition for a parent to travel with their children unless there is a court order that restricts traveling. I agree with Ms. Grosse, perhaps your wife is reflecting on the situation and needs some wisdom from her parents.

On the other hand, you have to remember that if your wife stays in New York for a while, New York could obtain jurisdiction over your son, and then you may have to fight there. I believe that's what Mr. Grissom was trying express; to raise your awareness of this fact.

You know your wife better than any one of us. You need to use your judgment. May God give you the wisdom to do the right thing.

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Answered on 7/06/09, 9:21 am


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