A question for non-custodial parents in Texas?

Question

Does your visitation agreement specify where you can pick up your children for visits?

My brother has an eight-year old step-daughter. There is tension between him and his step-daughter's father.

My brother does not want the father to pick up his daughter at my brother's house.

Instead, my brother insists that they meet at a mutual location like the park two blocks away.

The father on the other hand insists that he has a court order that states that he can come to my brother's house to pick up the child.

Question: Would a court order specifically state that the non-custodial parent can pick the child up at the mother's home? Or is that just implied? If there is tension could the mother insists on another location without going back to court?

Answer 1

I think in Texas, if you are a non-custodial parent and miss a visit, they give you the electric chair.

Actually, I think you get the electric chair for just about anything.

Answer 2

It doesn't matter what the paperwork says, your brother has a legal right as a homeowner (in TX) to control who comes to his home under these circumstances. If he so chooses, he can ask the police how to "criminal trespass" the father off of his property.The dad does not have any right at all to go where he's not wanted.The mom can indeed insist on another location without returning to court.

Answer 3

Perhaps he should say something like "I was headed in your direction for an appointment could I just drop her off at your place" or something to keep him from coming to his house.

The court papers usually don't specify a specific location but a county or city where they must meet and who should drive the child to that location.

If the problems are bad enough he could suggest the step father not even be in attendance when the child is handed over.

It is always the worst option if it can be avoided but if there are real problems and it may harm the child (meaning mentally) then have a new court order done with very specific handing over directions.

good luck

Answer 4

First of all, have they seen the Court order? If not they should ask to see it. It's possible it specifies where transfers are to take place, as this is a big issue with some people. If so, he could have his attorney contact the father's and try to work it out; but, ultimately, he might have to go to court to have it changed. Ridiculous, isn't it??

In the meantime, just tell them not to let the Dad in the house. When he comes to the door, open it and tell him you'll bring her out in a minute. Then escort her outside to her Dad.

No matter what they work out, I hope they will try really hard to make everything as comfortable as possible for that little girl. After all, the divorce isn't her fault.

Answer 5

I think its implied...i think...hmmm...good question. I have never looked at mine since DBD never comes around.

Tell him to check court papers, they each get same copy.