Question: I recently filed for and had a temporary matters hearing. I’ve spent 20 years of my life being abused by my wife, who also has abused our children. I had a doctor confirmation and my adult children testified to the abuse and said my youngest child would be safer with me.
My bi-polar wife, who has been on medication for 10 years, even admitted on the stand that she dreams of killing herself. In spite of all of this, the judge gave temporary custody to my wife. Huh?!?
So my youngest, who was with me every weekend for the past year, now only gets to see me every other weekend. What’s wrong with the system and do I have any options?
Answer:
You need to consult a domestic litigation attorney in your state as the laws governing custody and placement of children vary from state to state. I do not practice in your jurisdiction, so I cannot answer specific questions as to why your wife was awarded temporary custody of your children.
In addition to suicidal thoughts, did your wife admit that she abused you and the children? Were there allegations made against you which lead the Court to award her temporary custody over you? You need to contact an attorney immediately to discuss the background of your case and the Judge’s basis for his ruling.
If she has abused you and the children, most states have statutes for domestic abuse restraining orders for significant others and children. You and your attorney will be able to discuss your options applying the laws in Iowa.
Erica Christian is an Associate Attorney in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin, office of Cordell & Cordell, P.C. She is licensed to practice law in the state of Wisconsin. She is a member of the Wisconsin Bar Association, the Family Law Section and the Children’s Law Section.
