Do You Have the Right to Object to Your Ex’s Partner Being Around Your Children?
Hi, I’m Brian L. Jackson, a dads’ rights attorney in Tulsa. As a divorced parent, you may be wondering if you have the right to object to your ex-spouse’s partner being around your children. The answer isn’t black and white and depends on the specifics of your custody agreement.
If you have a decree in place, you and your ex have discretion regarding bringing significant others around your children. However, if there are specific restrictions in the court order, such as not allowing the significant other to spend the night or engage in sexual activity while the children are present, those restrictions must be followed.
When Can You Object?
If your ex is encouraging your child to refer to their new partner as mom or dad, that could be considered moving the partner into a parental role to replace you. In this case, you could take the matter to family court. However, objecting to a partner’s presence just because you don’t like them is unlikely to be a successful argument in court.
Similarly, if you have a new partner, your ex cannot object to their presence as a general rule. The ability to object becomes even more difficult if you are talking about a new marital partner. That’s because marriage is both a state and federally protected constitutional right. Unless the person is unsuitable for some reason, a court won’t say they can’t be around the children.
When Can You Object to a New Partner’s Presence?
If the new partner has a history of child welfare issues, domestic violence, serious criminal history, substance abuse issues, or mental health issues that are not well maintained, you can object to their presence around your children.
Contact a Lawyer for Help
If you are unsure about the specifics of your custody agreement or have questions about your rights, it’s best to contact a child custody lawyer in Oklahoma who specializes in father’s rights. At Dads.Law, we’re here to help ensure that fathers are not disposable. Contact us today for a initial consultation at (918) 962-0900 or visit tulsa.dads.law.
