[momto2]

I am a single mother of 2. I have supported my children without help from their father. We were never married, but he did sign the birth certificates. We have no legal documents verifying anything but I still let him get the kids for two weeks. I have a great job opportunity in another state, I am scared he will try and take them from me. He has not provided for them, his 63 yr old mother does he refuses to work, and has a drinking problem, as well as just had a baby with a 17yr old. He is 27! I know none of that matters I am just wondering who has more rights he or I! I have been the sole care giver of my children for 4 1/2 yrs. He just now started having a relationship with them. Confused and scared.

[RedRoverGP]

Quit panicking! I know it's scary but my friend you have all the rights! If you do not have a legal parenting plan in place it's unlikely he will even contest your moving. You are the custodial parent. You can prove that the children live with you full time and that he only spends two weeks a year with them. If you go to family court mostly a judge will be looking at how a move will affect the children being away from there dad. Unfortunately since paternity has been established he does have parenting rights. If he chooses not to set a parenting plan into place and stick to it.. well that's his problem. In most states you are required to notify him in writing (get it notarized for proof) 30 days prior to your move, if he does not contest it than your free to go If he does contest you may end up in court but if you can show moving away would benefit your child more than harm them it's likely it won't be a problem or the judge may request you guys go to mediation to set a plan in place for visitation.