Child Custody

questions & answers

Question: My ex is smi ( seriously mentally ill) and have suicidal tendencies and is a heroin addict and have multiple domestic violence against her. Could she refuse to let me see or speak to my daughter and take sole custody of her?

Answer: I cannot answer your question without knowing more about the specific circumstances and what court actions have already been taken.  Has family court considered evidence of her heroin addiction and domestic violence issues?  Does she have any criminal convictions?  Your best bet is to sit down in person with a lawyer and talk about the specific facts of your situation.  Bring any court papers with you to the meeting.  There are three programs in Arizona that you can use to get inexpensive legal advice and guidance.  One is the modest means program.  You will need to apply for the program and meet the financial qualifications.  Once you are qualified, Modest Means will send you a list of attorneys whose practice covers your area of concern.  You select a lawyer from the list and will be entitled to a one hour consultation for $75.  If you need additional help and if the lawyer agrees to take your case, the most you will be charged is $75 per hours.  the telephone number is (866) 637-5341.  Both Maricopa County and Pima County have lawyer referral programs that offer a 30 minute consult with an attorney.  Maricopa County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consult with an experienced attorney for $40.  The telephone number is  (602) 257-4434.  Pima County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute attorney consult for $35.  The telephone number is (520) 623-4625.