AboutLaura Giles Expertise I can answer questions related to filing charges, support groups, leaving, safety planning, getting a protective order, getting counseling, or staying.
Experience I worked as a domestic violence advocate in the court system. I am also a counselor.
Education/Credentials B.S. Human Services Counseling
Master of Social Work
Question I have 3 kids w/ex-husband. He is a great dad, we get along. His live in girlfriend of 4 yrs and he have very nasty fights with every cuss word imagineable, horrible name-calling, almost physical. (Has been physical when kids weren't there). She does not speak to my kids, she's cold. I believe she has bipolar from what I know of her and her behavior.(I'm a nurse who has been around plenty of bipolars to flag possibility)Recently my last straw was hearing how she locked my kids and ex out of the house WHILE she was inside, resulting in my 8 yr old being heisted up through a window to get in. What are my rights? We have 50/50 custody, but my kids are wanting to be at my home fulltime until their dad "gets rid of her". My heart is broken over the fact that my kids have already witnessed more dirty fighting than a bartender. What do I do to protect my kids, he's a wonderful dad when she's not around. My kids are so happy when they find out she has to work on the evening they go to his home.
Answer Dear Jennifer,
You can always petition the court for a change of custody.
If the girlfriend is being abusive, you can also report her to Child Protective Services.
Whatever you decide to do, you should put their safety and well-being first. If your ex is not protecting them appropriately, this may mean that his rights are restricted, but you have to do what you have to do.
