As a parent and someone who is going through a divorce, your priority is doing anything you can to help your children get through these changes. You want them to be in a positive situation and to have a healthy relationship with both of their parents, you and your ex-spouse.
One of the big problems in your relationship, though, is that you and the other parent rarely agree on how you want to raise your children. On top of that, you’d like to get more parenting time and to be the primary parent following the divorce. Your soon-to-be-ex spouse isn’t happy about that, and, since they have family in other states and abroad, you’re concerned about what they may do to limit your access to your children if they don’t get their way.
Is parental kidnapping a concern in your case?
There are a few red flags that signify that parental kidnapping could be a concern in your situation. Here are three.
- The other parent gets your kids passports
The first thing to watch for is any change in what the other parent is buying for your child, along with the purchase of a passport without your knowledge or permission. If your child mentions that their other parent has gotten them a passport, or if you see your children excited about an upcoming trip you don’t know about, those are big red flags.
- The other parent starts collecting copies of important paperwork
Another time that you have to be cautious and should discuss the risk of kidnapping with your attorney is if the other parent starts collecting copies of important documents like your children’s birth certificates, school documents or medical records. They could be getting copies just to have them on hand, or they could be preparing to move.
- The other parent threatens to withhold your children
Finally, if the other parent threatens to take your children away, let your attorney know. They need to know that the threat has been made. Keep evidence of the threat if you can.
These are three red flags that you have to watch for. If you’re concerned, let your attorney know you think there is a risk of parental kidnapping as soon as possible.
