AboutJames Robinson Expertise I was a family law attorney for 25+ years. I have been divorced twice myself. One was friendly. The other wasn`t. Let me know how I can help.
Experience I have been divorced twice myself. One was friendly. The other wasn't. I was a family law attorney for 25+ years.
Question QUESTION: my child's father and i recently broke up. he is Jamaican and my daughter and i were born in the us. i want to know if he must have permission from me to take our daughter to "visit" Jamaica or if he can just up and take her. We were never married and he isn't a us citizen although he's applied for his green card. i am terrified that he can just take her there and that i may never see her again!! i truly appreciate any response
ANSWER: Dear Brandy
It is my understanding that you need the written permission of both parents for a child to leave the country, even with a passport. If the child doesn't have a passport, and he doesnt' have your permission, it is unlikely that he could snatch her. The best option would have a custody order which states he can't take her out of the country. Good luck.
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QUESTION: he says he is planning a trip for sept. and i have told him that i will be travelling with them. he seems to be fine with this. he may not ever plan to snatch her and i dont want to give him reason to do so. i am willing to allow HER AND I to go this one time, im terrified of any subsequent trips he may plan. how do i go about getting a custody order? im afraid if i piss him off that he will attempt my worst fear which is taking her there and never bringing her back.
Answer That is a common fear of parents who do not trust each other. You have to file a petition or complaint with a court of jurisdiction in the state and county where you live to be awarded custody. The good news is that Jamaica does cooperate with the US so if he does snatch her you would eventually get her back.
