My daughter is 15 years old and has lived with her father since our divorce-he is extremely manipulative, has serious anger management issues and abusive tendencies. We live in Massachusetts, and the reasons he received custody initially are complex and essentially moot now.

I have always been a very active, above and beyond "noncustodial parent." She finally moved in with me 6 months ago, during which time I continued to pay her father child support. When I brought up the subject of child support last night he went on a rage and told me that if she was not back at his house asap he would call the police on me.

I preempted him and called the police myself-they know the situaion very well as they have been called to his house on several occasions by neighbors because of screaming fights with my daughter.

She was so happy here-her grades went up in school and she thrived living in a calmer, more stable environment. And her father had no issue with her living here until I brought up the subject of money. She is, however, "court scared," and afraid to be put in the middle of this nightmare. I don't blame her.

I cannot afford a lawyer but am looking for suggestions about how to proceed from here.

Thanks.

The child does not have right to choose who has to be the custodial parent.