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alexias_mommy · Jan 30, 2008, 11:33 AM

My daughter is going to be 4 in a few months and her father has been in and out of her life. The thing is I have his phone number and I know where he lives but I have tried to call him and text him and he won't return my calls or texts. I know he gets them because he tells his ex of his 3 month old baby that I called him and she tells me. I refuse to take her to his house because of the fact that he won't call me and because I am pretty positive that he is selling drugs. I don't know if he has them in his house or not but I am not willing enough to take the chance. He barely ever shows for his visitation. The last time was in September and before that I think it was in like June or July. I know that it bothers her because if you say something about her dad she will tell you that she doesn't like him. He thinks that I put that into her head but she is a very smart little girl and she comes up with her own opinions. He did see her on Christmas because I chose to take her over to his mothers house. He did not have a lot of contact with her and he has not talked to her or me since. I was just wondering if there is anyway possible to file abandonment against him or what I have to wait for before I can because I know it isn't doing her any good having him in and out. So please give me some input. Thank you so much.

ScottGem · Jan 30, 2008, 11:39 AM

This is a question that has been asked several times. What do you think abandonment will get you? The answer is nothing. A charge of child abandonment is a criminal charge used when someone leaves a child totally alone for a period. Its not when a parent isn't being a part of that child's life.

I understand the trauma on your daughter that her father wants little or nothing to do with her. You have to deal with that by explaining to her that her father is being a stupid and selfish person for not wanting to spend time with such a great kid as she is.

But there is no such thing as filing for abandonment in your situation.

macksmom · Jan 30, 2008, 02:01 PM

The only reason you would want to file abandonment is if you were trying to terminate his rights to allow for an adoption. Other than that, abandonment does nothing.