My ex husband and I have shared custody of our son. I have him for a week and then he has him for a week. On his week, me ex has a family member that picks my son up from school. I have been told by teachers and parents, and other witnesses that she is telling them that I abuse my son, that if he continues to live with me I will cause him damage, and also is making other untrue statements about me to them. I am very upset by this and we live in a small community. I have actually been denied places to rent, and employment due to the things she is saying. The worst part is that she is saying these things in front of my 4 year old son. Can I get an order of protection against her and if not, what steps, if any can I take against her to get this to stop.

No, an order of protection is to keep people from you. You need to sue her for slander. You will need to prove that you have been denied lodgings and employment directly as a result of the slander.

You might be able to have the visitation order changed to not allow this person near your son.

These can effect his custody if he is trying to destroy your child's view point of you.

These statemets can be used to sue, in civil court and to ask for a chage of custody away from joint custody

Right -

First, protect your child - go back to Court, take PROOF of these statements and get your visitation/custody order changed.

Then gather PROOF of what is being said (not second hand statements) and consult with an Attorney concerning your damages.

Sure there are things that can be done. But an order of protection is not what you are after. Do you have any solid proof of what she is saying? As said above, protect your son first and take as much proof as you can gather with you to court to try to get the custody/visitation order modified. Then you can work on the other things such as the denial of places to live and work.

Thanks to all who answered my questions concerning my son. I think you are all right. Iwill start the proper proceedings by seeing an attorney. Thanks again!!

You don't need an Attorney to file for a change in custody/visitation. If obtaining legal counsel will delay the process go to Court and file the papers NOW - protect your child.