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#61
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"P.Fritz" wrote in message ... wrote in message ... I found this post very interesting. But I would like to make a few comments: 1. Most police do not to get involved in this type of problem because child custody is a matter handled by a civil court. And intent in creating a police agency is to deal with criminal matters. If parents can not get along and follow the parenting agreement...it is a civil matter that eventually gets sent back in front of the Family Court. Violating a custody order and moving a child across state lines is a FELONY in Mich. And that's supposed to mean something in a practical manner? I would be surprised if it were not a criminal staute in Ca. as well. 2. Even if you can find an officer that will write up a rpt under section 278.5...it will not go any where unless the D.A.'s office will "issue" on it. Now we're in the realm of "Can I win this case, (Hell, "Can I even get this in front of a judge") and is it worth my time to try"? Most D.A.'s case loads are so full they only want to issue on a case if they feel they have a chance of winning...else it is all just a waste of time. 3. I believe the intent of 278.5 PC was to prosecute "Parental Child Abduction". It was not intended to deal with a parent that plays the "Johnny does not feel well enough to go with you today!" crap. It was/is for the parent the takes the child (usually out of county/state/country and permentantly tries to keep the child away. Most such laws have a time period specified......over 24 hr, 48 hrs etc. Before you think about asking a police officer to take a rpt for "visitation interference" call your D.A.'s office and see if they would issue on that type of case. If they won't, you are just wasting your time talking with the officer. Remember it is not the officers fault...if the DA's office will not "issue", the rpt is just wasted paper. And believe me....with the divorce rate so high in the law enforcement field, there are many police officers in the same boat. They really can feel your pain...they just can't do anything about it. You must have the officer file, because no complaint can be issued against a DA for refusing to prosecute. One of the tricks to successfully pursuing such action is to have all the i's dotted and the t's crossed. On Tue, 25 May 2004 07:22:55 -0500, Beverly wrote: A few things come to mind as I follow this thread. 1. There are many laws on the books in every state that are never prosecuted. Some are antiquated (i.e. having to do with horse and buggy days) and some have alternative methods that have come about in later law for resolution. Yours sounds like the latter. Police seldom move on things that can be handled without police intervention. 2. Even though you and your ex do not share a domicile, the case is domestic. Many officers are loathe to get involved in domestic disputes, and don't as a policy unless a life is in danger, as they can be more hairy than other crimes. 3. Many crimes are not a crime which causes active investigation. The police may have had what is called a "bench warrant" issued and, basically, in order to be arrested, the criminal must be caught doing something else. This can be as simple as a traffic stop, but nonetheless is going to require another event for action. Just so you know, this "other event" could be the criminal turning him/herself in, so you may want to see if a bench warrant has been issued and, if so, inform your ex that "they are looking for her." A semi-responsible person with a child will turn themselves in if only to avoid the necessity of bail/a night in jail so as they can make sure the state never gets their child. 4. Beware. Taking the child out of state temporarily, causing one missed visitation, may likely be laughed out of court, criminally and civilly. It depends on the third parties involved. You may build a better case tape recording your ex telling you how frivolously she discounts your child's need for you. Documenting missed vistations carefully, to include the reason given. The civil courts may view an arrest of an ex-spouse as a feeble-hearted attempt to change custody without them (the civil court) and will be angered in the process. On Tue, 25 May 2004 03:29:26 GMT, JR wrote: Hi Barry, I've actually got the same "fixed schedule" order that you have (1-3-5 weekends). That's why I'm asking about criminal prosecution under Cal PC 728.5. There's really no way our order can be mis-interpreted. The date, time, place, of our custody transfers are clearly stated in the order (it took a LONG time to get the order to that point). Despite this, mom repeatedly thumbs her nose at me and the court to the detriment of an innocent little girl (and me, her father). Yes, I filed the OSC Contempt papers this morning and they should be served on Mom by Tuesday or Wednesday. The arraignment is set for July 6th. But like I said, Civil Contempt was unsuccessful before, so I'm looking for a way to convince law enforcement to, er, enforce the law!! When I discovered Cal Penal Code 278.5 via the post I pasted below, I thought, "THIS IS IT! THERE IS A LAW SHE IS BREAKING!" But now that I've filed the report, I'm kind of stalled. Trouble is I know that my police report was taken not because the police intended to do a real investigation, but only to get me out of the substation; to go away. I want to know how to get the police to follow up, verify that the orders are valid, locate and question the criminal, and arrest her upon verifying that statute 278.5 was violated. I was hoping this "two-pronged" approach (civil contempt + criminal case) might yield better results. I'm hopeful about the contempt, but I want to keep the criminal side moving. There was another guy in the substation reporting a stolen car while I was trying to get my stolen child report filed. The officer seemed so much more willing to take the stolen car report, I guess because he understood the crime. But what if the guy who had his car stolen on Friday found out that the thief had returned the car, slightly damaged, on Monday? Wouldn't it still be a crime? My daughter will never get this weekend with her dad back. The message sent to her by her mom, that it's ok to ignore dad and take the law into your own hands, is emotionally and psychologically damaging to her! Ok, enough of my tortured kid=car metaphor, but a kid is more important than a car, yet I can't get the police to act on this! Anyway, thanks a lot for responding Barry. The initial lack of responses was beginning to make me doubt myself. But I'm beginning to see that I'm in uncharted territory here. Jay R. wrote: In alt.child-support JR wrote: : Hello, : How do I prosecute my ex-girlfriend for Custodial Interference in : California? I've taken some steps and have a criminal case number : assigned, but what are the next steps I need to take to get her charged? : I believe that if she left the state (and I believe she did), this is : a felony. I've been through this situation a lot. The problem is the lack of clarity with the custody order regarding when parenting time will occur. I told our custody mediator my problems with Custodial Interference. He wrote the custody order using "fixed schedule parenting time.". It's clearly stated that I'll have him on the first, third, and fifth (if there is a fifth) weekend of the month plus Thursday afternoons (between defined hours at a minimum) on even weeks. This is better than "every other weekend" because one can always look at a calendar and see if it's the first, third or fifth weekend vs. quibbling over "what was an every other week". Additionally, the order states that **any deviation of the schedule has to be mutually agreed upon in writing***. Also, if the child is "ill", a doctor's note is required to delay parenting time (she played that game also). You need to pursue a contempt citation. However, the result would probably be the same for you as last time (not clear as a result of swapping days, etc.). I would advise you to file a motion to revise your custody order. Make it clear which days of the week you'll be with your child and what times. Make it clear that any deviation HAS to be in writing and signed by both of you or an email must be sent and a reply given by you defining the change in parenting time. If you can afford it, get legal help from an attorney to draft the Custody Order modification. Also, I'll note that I've used the "dial a lawyer" attorneys available from www.nolo.com and have been pleased with their service and the low cost. Good luck. Get a clear custody order and stick to it. No deviations that are outside of the order. If you do, that demonstrates you are "flexible" and you can now see that your situation can be taken advantage of by the ex. barry |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"Chris" wrote in message news:ev2tc.22993$7y5.10666@fed1read03... "P.Fritz" wrote in message ... wrote in message ... I found this post very interesting. But I would like to make a few comments: 1. Most police do not to get involved in this type of problem because child custody is a matter handled by a civil court. And intent in creating a police agency is to deal with criminal matters. If parents can not get along and follow the parenting agreement...it is a civil matter that eventually gets sent back in front of the Family Court. Violating a custody order and moving a child across state lines is a FELONY in Mich. And that's supposed to mean something in a practical manner? Yes, it means up to 1 year of imprisonment when convicted. BTW, before you whine any further, I have personally seen it be applied....and just the threat of it deters parenting time interference. I would be surprised if it were not a criminal staute in Ca. as well. 2. Even if you can find an officer that will write up a rpt under section 278.5...it will not go any where unless the D.A.'s office will "issue" on it. Now we're in the realm of "Can I win this case, (Hell, "Can I even get this in front of a judge") and is it worth my time to try"? Most D.A.'s case loads are so full they only want to issue on a case if they feel they have a chance of winning...else it is all just a waste of time. 3. I believe the intent of 278.5 PC was to prosecute "Parental Child Abduction". It was not intended to deal with a parent that plays the "Johnny does not feel well enough to go with you today!" crap. It was/is for the parent the takes the child (usually out of county/state/country and permentantly tries to keep the child away. Most such laws have a time period specified......over 24 hr, 48 hrs etc. Before you think about asking a police officer to take a rpt for "visitation interference" call your D.A.'s office and see if they would issue on that type of case. If they won't, you are just wasting your time talking with the officer. Remember it is not the officers fault...if the DA's office will not "issue", the rpt is just wasted paper. And believe me....with the divorce rate so high in the law enforcement field, there are many police officers in the same boat. They really can feel your pain...they just can't do anything about it. You must have the officer file, because no complaint can be issued against a DA for refusing to prosecute. One of the tricks to successfully pursuing such action is to have all the i's dotted and the t's crossed. On Tue, 25 May 2004 07:22:55 -0500, Beverly wrote: A few things come to mind as I follow this thread. 1. There are many laws on the books in every state that are never prosecuted. Some are antiquated (i.e. having to do with horse and buggy days) and some have alternative methods that have come about in later law for resolution. Yours sounds like the latter. Police seldom move on things that can be handled without police intervention. 2. Even though you and your ex do not share a domicile, the case is domestic. Many officers are loathe to get involved in domestic disputes, and don't as a policy unless a life is in danger, as they can be more hairy than other crimes. 3. Many crimes are not a crime which causes active investigation. The police may have had what is called a "bench warrant" issued and, basically, in order to be arrested, the criminal must be caught doing something else. This can be as simple as a traffic stop, but nonetheless is going to require another event for action. Just so you know, this "other event" could be the criminal turning him/herself in, so you may want to see if a bench warrant has been issued and, if so, inform your ex that "they are looking for her." A semi-responsible person with a child will turn themselves in if only to avoid the necessity of bail/a night in jail so as they can make sure the state never gets their child. 4. Beware. Taking the child out of state temporarily, causing one missed visitation, may likely be laughed out of court, criminally and civilly. It depends on the third parties involved. You may build a better case tape recording your ex telling you how frivolously she discounts your child's need for you. Documenting missed vistations carefully, to include the reason given. The civil courts may view an arrest of an ex-spouse as a feeble-hearted attempt to change custody without them (the civil court) and will be angered in the process. On Tue, 25 May 2004 03:29:26 GMT, JR wrote: Hi Barry, I've actually got the same "fixed schedule" order that you have (1-3-5 weekends). That's why I'm asking about criminal prosecution under Cal PC 728.5. There's really no way our order can be mis-interpreted. The date, time, place, of our custody transfers are clearly stated in the order (it took a LONG time to get the order to that point). Despite this, mom repeatedly thumbs her nose at me and the court to the detriment of an innocent little girl (and me, her father). Yes, I filed the OSC Contempt papers this morning and they should be served on Mom by Tuesday or Wednesday. The arraignment is set for July 6th. But like I said, Civil Contempt was unsuccessful before, so I'm looking for a way to convince law enforcement to, er, enforce the law!! When I discovered Cal Penal Code 278.5 via the post I pasted below, I thought, "THIS IS IT! THERE IS A LAW SHE IS BREAKING!" But now that I've filed the report, I'm kind of stalled. Trouble is I know that my police report was taken not because the police intended to do a real investigation, but only to get me out of the substation; to go away. I want to know how to get the police to follow up, verify that the orders are valid, locate and question the criminal, and arrest her upon verifying that statute 278.5 was violated. I was hoping this "two-pronged" approach (civil contempt + criminal case) might yield better results. I'm hopeful about the contempt, but I want to keep the criminal side moving. There was another guy in the substation reporting a stolen car while I was trying to get my stolen child report filed. The officer seemed so much more willing to take the stolen car report, I guess because he understood the crime. But what if the guy who had his car stolen on Friday found out that the thief had returned the car, slightly damaged, on Monday? Wouldn't it still be a crime? My daughter will never get this weekend with her dad back. The message sent to her by her mom, that it's ok to ignore dad and take the law into your own hands, is emotionally and psychologically damaging to her! Ok, enough of my tortured kid=car metaphor, but a kid is more important than a car, yet I can't get the police to act on this! Anyway, thanks a lot for responding Barry. The initial lack of responses was beginning to make me doubt myself. But I'm beginning to see that I'm in uncharted territory here. Jay R. wrote: In alt.child-support JR wrote: : Hello, : How do I prosecute my ex-girlfriend for Custodial Interference in : California? I've taken some steps and have a criminal case number : assigned, but what are the next steps I need to take to get her charged? : I believe that if she left the state (and I believe she did), this is : a felony. I've been through this situation a lot. The problem is the lack of clarity with the custody order regarding when parenting time will occur. I told our custody mediator my problems with Custodial Interference. He wrote the custody order using "fixed schedule parenting time.". It's clearly stated that I'll have him on the first, third, and fifth (if there is a fifth) weekend of the month plus Thursday afternoons (between defined hours at a minimum) on even weeks. This is better than "every other weekend" because one can always look at a calendar and see if it's the first, third or fifth weekend vs. quibbling over "what was an every other week". Additionally, the order states that **any deviation of the schedule has to be mutually agreed upon in writing***. Also, if the child is "ill", a doctor's note is required to delay parenting time (she played that game also). You need to pursue a contempt citation. However, the result would probably be the same for you as last time (not clear as a result of swapping days, etc.). I would advise you to file a motion to revise your custody order. Make it clear which days of the week you'll be with your child and what times. Make it clear that any deviation HAS to be in writing and signed by both of you or an email must be sent and a reply given by you defining the change in parenting time. If you can afford it, get legal help from an attorney to draft the Custody Order modification. Also, I'll note that I've used the "dial a lawyer" attorneys available from www.nolo.com and have been pleased with their service and the low cost. Good luck. Get a clear custody order and stick to it. No deviations that are outside of the order. If you do, that demonstrates you are "flexible" and you can now see that your situation can be taken advantage of by the ex. barry |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"Chris" wrote in message news:ev2tc.22993$7y5.10666@fed1read03... "P.Fritz" wrote in message ... wrote in message ... I found this post very interesting. But I would like to make a few comments: 1. Most police do not to get involved in this type of problem because child custody is a matter handled by a civil court. And intent in creating a police agency is to deal with criminal matters. If parents can not get along and follow the parenting agreement...it is a civil matter that eventually gets sent back in front of the Family Court. Violating a custody order and moving a child across state lines is a FELONY in Mich. And that's supposed to mean something in a practical manner? Yes, it means up to 1 year of imprisonment when convicted. BTW, before you whine any further, I have personally seen it be applied....and just the threat of it deters parenting time interference. I would be surprised if it were not a criminal staute in Ca. as well. 2. Even if you can find an officer that will write up a rpt under section 278.5...it will not go any where unless the D.A.'s office will "issue" on it. Now we're in the realm of "Can I win this case, (Hell, "Can I even get this in front of a judge") and is it worth my time to try"? Most D.A.'s case loads are so full they only want to issue on a case if they feel they have a chance of winning...else it is all just a waste of time. 3. I believe the intent of 278.5 PC was to prosecute "Parental Child Abduction". It was not intended to deal with a parent that plays the "Johnny does not feel well enough to go with you today!" crap. It was/is for the parent the takes the child (usually out of county/state/country and permentantly tries to keep the child away. Most such laws have a time period specified......over 24 hr, 48 hrs etc. Before you think about asking a police officer to take a rpt for "visitation interference" call your D.A.'s office and see if they would issue on that type of case. If they won't, you are just wasting your time talking with the officer. Remember it is not the officers fault...if the DA's office will not "issue", the rpt is just wasted paper. And believe me....with the divorce rate so high in the law enforcement field, there are many police officers in the same boat. They really can feel your pain...they just can't do anything about it. You must have the officer file, because no complaint can be issued against a DA for refusing to prosecute. One of the tricks to successfully pursuing such action is to have all the i's dotted and the t's crossed. On Tue, 25 May 2004 07:22:55 -0500, Beverly wrote: A few things come to mind as I follow this thread. 1. There are many laws on the books in every state that are never prosecuted. Some are antiquated (i.e. having to do with horse and buggy days) and some have alternative methods that have come about in later law for resolution. Yours sounds like the latter. Police seldom move on things that can be handled without police intervention. 2. Even though you and your ex do not share a domicile, the case is domestic. Many officers are loathe to get involved in domestic disputes, and don't as a policy unless a life is in danger, as they can be more hairy than other crimes. 3. Many crimes are not a crime which causes active investigation. The police may have had what is called a "bench warrant" issued and, basically, in order to be arrested, the criminal must be caught doing something else. This can be as simple as a traffic stop, but nonetheless is going to require another event for action. Just so you know, this "other event" could be the criminal turning him/herself in, so you may want to see if a bench warrant has been issued and, if so, inform your ex that "they are looking for her." A semi-responsible person with a child will turn themselves in if only to avoid the necessity of bail/a night in jail so as they can make sure the state never gets their child. 4. Beware. Taking the child out of state temporarily, causing one missed visitation, may likely be laughed out of court, criminally and civilly. It depends on the third parties involved. You may build a better case tape recording your ex telling you how frivolously she discounts your child's need for you. Documenting missed vistations carefully, to include the reason given. The civil courts may view an arrest of an ex-spouse as a feeble-hearted attempt to change custody without them (the civil court) and will be angered in the process. On Tue, 25 May 2004 03:29:26 GMT, JR wrote: Hi Barry, I've actually got the same "fixed schedule" order that you have (1-3-5 weekends). That's why I'm asking about criminal prosecution under Cal PC 728.5. There's really no way our order can be mis-interpreted. The date, time, place, of our custody transfers are clearly stated in the order (it took a LONG time to get the order to that point). Despite this, mom repeatedly thumbs her nose at me and the court to the detriment of an innocent little girl (and me, her father). Yes, I filed the OSC Contempt papers this morning and they should be served on Mom by Tuesday or Wednesday. The arraignment is set for July 6th. But like I said, Civil Contempt was unsuccessful before, so I'm looking for a way to convince law enforcement to, er, enforce the law!! When I discovered Cal Penal Code 278.5 via the post I pasted below, I thought, "THIS IS IT! THERE IS A LAW SHE IS BREAKING!" But now that I've filed the report, I'm kind of stalled. Trouble is I know that my police report was taken not because the police intended to do a real investigation, but only to get me out of the substation; to go away. I want to know how to get the police to follow up, verify that the orders are valid, locate and question the criminal, and arrest her upon verifying that statute 278.5 was violated. I was hoping this "two-pronged" approach (civil contempt + criminal case) might yield better results. I'm hopeful about the contempt, but I want to keep the criminal side moving. There was another guy in the substation reporting a stolen car while I was trying to get my stolen child report filed. The officer seemed so much more willing to take the stolen car report, I guess because he understood the crime. But what if the guy who had his car stolen on Friday found out that the thief had returned the car, slightly damaged, on Monday? Wouldn't it still be a crime? My daughter will never get this weekend with her dad back. The message sent to her by her mom, that it's ok to ignore dad and take the law into your own hands, is emotionally and psychologically damaging to her! Ok, enough of my tortured kid=car metaphor, but a kid is more important than a car, yet I can't get the police to act on this! Anyway, thanks a lot for responding Barry. The initial lack of responses was beginning to make me doubt myself. But I'm beginning to see that I'm in uncharted territory here. Jay R. wrote: In alt.child-support JR wrote: : Hello, : How do I prosecute my ex-girlfriend for Custodial Interference in : California? I've taken some steps and have a criminal case number : assigned, but what are the next steps I need to take to get her charged? : I believe that if she left the state (and I believe she did), this is : a felony. I've been through this situation a lot. The problem is the lack of clarity with the custody order regarding when parenting time will occur. I told our custody mediator my problems with Custodial Interference. He wrote the custody order using "fixed schedule parenting time.". It's clearly stated that I'll have him on the first, third, and fifth (if there is a fifth) weekend of the month plus Thursday afternoons (between defined hours at a minimum) on even weeks. This is better than "every other weekend" because one can always look at a calendar and see if it's the first, third or fifth weekend vs. quibbling over "what was an every other week". Additionally, the order states that **any deviation of the schedule has to be mutually agreed upon in writing***. Also, if the child is "ill", a doctor's note is required to delay parenting time (she played that game also). You need to pursue a contempt citation. However, the result would probably be the same for you as last time (not clear as a result of swapping days, etc.). I would advise you to file a motion to revise your custody order. Make it clear which days of the week you'll be with your child and what times. Make it clear that any deviation HAS to be in writing and signed by both of you or an email must be sent and a reply given by you defining the change in parenting time. If you can afford it, get legal help from an attorney to draft the Custody Order modification. Also, I'll note that I've used the "dial a lawyer" attorneys available from www.nolo.com and have been pleased with their service and the low cost. Good luck. Get a clear custody order and stick to it. No deviations that are outside of the order. If you do, that demonstrates you are "flexible" and you can now see that your situation can be taken advantage of by the ex. barry |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"Chris" wrote in message news:ev2tc.22993$7y5.10666@fed1read03... "P.Fritz" wrote in message ... wrote in message ... I found this post very interesting. But I would like to make a few comments: 1. Most police do not to get involved in this type of problem because child custody is a matter handled by a civil court. And intent in creating a police agency is to deal with criminal matters. If parents can not get along and follow the parenting agreement...it is a civil matter that eventually gets sent back in front of the Family Court. Violating a custody order and moving a child across state lines is a FELONY in Mich. And that's supposed to mean something in a practical manner? Yes, it means up to 1 year of imprisonment when convicted. BTW, before you whine any further, I have personally seen it be applied....and just the threat of it deters parenting time interference. I would be surprised if it were not a criminal staute in Ca. as well. 2. Even if you can find an officer that will write up a rpt under section 278.5...it will not go any where unless the D.A.'s office will "issue" on it. Now we're in the realm of "Can I win this case, (Hell, "Can I even get this in front of a judge") and is it worth my time to try"? Most D.A.'s case loads are so full they only want to issue on a case if they feel they have a chance of winning...else it is all just a waste of time. 3. I believe the intent of 278.5 PC was to prosecute "Parental Child Abduction". It was not intended to deal with a parent that plays the "Johnny does not feel well enough to go with you today!" crap. It was/is for the parent the takes the child (usually out of county/state/country and permentantly tries to keep the child away. Most such laws have a time period specified......over 24 hr, 48 hrs etc. Before you think about asking a police officer to take a rpt for "visitation interference" call your D.A.'s office and see if they would issue on that type of case. If they won't, you are just wasting your time talking with the officer. Remember it is not the officers fault...if the DA's office will not "issue", the rpt is just wasted paper. And believe me....with the divorce rate so high in the law enforcement field, there are many police officers in the same boat. They really can feel your pain...they just can't do anything about it. You must have the officer file, because no complaint can be issued against a DA for refusing to prosecute. One of the tricks to successfully pursuing such action is to have all the i's dotted and the t's crossed. On Tue, 25 May 2004 07:22:55 -0500, Beverly wrote: A few things come to mind as I follow this thread. 1. There are many laws on the books in every state that are never prosecuted. Some are antiquated (i.e. having to do with horse and buggy days) and some have alternative methods that have come about in later law for resolution. Yours sounds like the latter. Police seldom move on things that can be handled without police intervention. 2. Even though you and your ex do not share a domicile, the case is domestic. Many officers are loathe to get involved in domestic disputes, and don't as a policy unless a life is in danger, as they can be more hairy than other crimes. 3. Many crimes are not a crime which causes active investigation. The police may have had what is called a "bench warrant" issued and, basically, in order to be arrested, the criminal must be caught doing something else. This can be as simple as a traffic stop, but nonetheless is going to require another event for action. Just so you know, this "other event" could be the criminal turning him/herself in, so you may want to see if a bench warrant has been issued and, if so, inform your ex that "they are looking for her." A semi-responsible person with a child will turn themselves in if only to avoid the necessity of bail/a night in jail so as they can make sure the state never gets their child. 4. Beware. Taking the child out of state temporarily, causing one missed visitation, may likely be laughed out of court, criminally and civilly. It depends on the third parties involved. You may build a better case tape recording your ex telling you how frivolously she discounts your child's need for you. Documenting missed vistations carefully, to include the reason given. The civil courts may view an arrest of an ex-spouse as a feeble-hearted attempt to change custody without them (the civil court) and will be angered in the process. On Tue, 25 May 2004 03:29:26 GMT, JR wrote: Hi Barry, I've actually got the same "fixed schedule" order that you have (1-3-5 weekends). That's why I'm asking about criminal prosecution under Cal PC 728.5. There's really no way our order can be mis-interpreted. The date, time, place, of our custody transfers are clearly stated in the order (it took a LONG time to get the order to that point). Despite this, mom repeatedly thumbs her nose at me and the court to the detriment of an innocent little girl (and me, her father). Yes, I filed the OSC Contempt papers this morning and they should be served on Mom by Tuesday or Wednesday. The arraignment is set for July 6th. But like I said, Civil Contempt was unsuccessful before, so I'm looking for a way to convince law enforcement to, er, enforce the law!! When I discovered Cal Penal Code 278.5 via the post I pasted below, I thought, "THIS IS IT! THERE IS A LAW SHE IS BREAKING!" But now that I've filed the report, I'm kind of stalled. Trouble is I know that my police report was taken not because the police intended to do a real investigation, but only to get me out of the substation; to go away. I want to know how to get the police to follow up, verify that the orders are valid, locate and question the criminal, and arrest her upon verifying that statute 278.5 was violated. I was hoping this "two-pronged" approach (civil contempt + criminal case) might yield better results. I'm hopeful about the contempt, but I want to keep the criminal side moving. There was another guy in the substation reporting a stolen car while I was trying to get my stolen child report filed. The officer seemed so much more willing to take the stolen car report, I guess because he understood the crime. But what if the guy who had his car stolen on Friday found out that the thief had returned the car, slightly damaged, on Monday? Wouldn't it still be a crime? My daughter will never get this weekend with her dad back. The message sent to her by her mom, that it's ok to ignore dad and take the law into your own hands, is emotionally and psychologically damaging to her! Ok, enough of my tortured kid=car metaphor, but a kid is more important than a car, yet I can't get the police to act on this! Anyway, thanks a lot for responding Barry. The initial lack of responses was beginning to make me doubt myself. But I'm beginning to see that I'm in uncharted territory here. Jay R. wrote: In alt.child-support JR wrote: : Hello, : How do I prosecute my ex-girlfriend for Custodial Interference in : California? I've taken some steps and have a criminal case number : assigned, but what are the next steps I need to take to get her charged? : I believe that if she left the state (and I believe she did), this is : a felony. I've been through this situation a lot. The problem is the lack of clarity with the custody order regarding when parenting time will occur. I told our custody mediator my problems with Custodial Interference. He wrote the custody order using "fixed schedule parenting time.". It's clearly stated that I'll have him on the first, third, and fifth (if there is a fifth) weekend of the month plus Thursday afternoons (between defined hours at a minimum) on even weeks. This is better than "every other weekend" because one can always look at a calendar and see if it's the first, third or fifth weekend vs. quibbling over "what was an every other week". Additionally, the order states that **any deviation of the schedule has to be mutually agreed upon in writing***. Also, if the child is "ill", a doctor's note is required to delay parenting time (she played that game also). You need to pursue a contempt citation. However, the result would probably be the same for you as last time (not clear as a result of swapping days, etc.). I would advise you to file a motion to revise your custody order. Make it clear which days of the week you'll be with your child and what times. Make it clear that any deviation HAS to be in writing and signed by both of you or an email must be sent and a reply given by you defining the change in parenting time. If you can afford it, get legal help from an attorney to draft the Custody Order modification. Also, I'll note that I've used the "dial a lawyer" attorneys available from www.nolo.com and have been pleased with their service and the low cost. Good luck. Get a clear custody order and stick to it. No deviations that are outside of the order. If you do, that demonstrates you are "flexible" and you can now see that your situation can be taken advantage of by the ex. barry |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
As in passed to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecutor or "DA" will
not have to do anything unless the criminal complaint has be filed with the police. A warrant will not be issues unless the prosecutor presents the complaint to a judge. Each step MUST be taken by the complaintant or no misconduct complaint can be taken against any of the above parties. Hey, this is precisely the kind of procedural detail I was looking for when I originally posted! Thanks. Courts don't 'mean' anything. It is a matter of how the law is written in the legislature. Taking (moving) a child across state lines while denying a specified parenting time......it has nothing to do with establishing residence. Geesh. Right, this is what I've been trying to get across at every juncture. I explain what's happened, and I get "oh she took her out of state just for the weekend? That's not what we deal with here--you should talk to the judge." I then show them the statute, show them my court order, and request that they explain to me how mom's actions aren't a felony under this statute. Then they backpedal and talk in circles about "caseloads," and how they've "never heard of such a thing," and how, "we understand your frustration," until I eventually leave in disgust. The DA's Child Abduction expert even told me "you cannot file a request for investigation with us unless you are the custodial parent." Me: "That doesn't seem fair like a fair policy, but anyway I am the custodial parent, starting at 2:30 p.m. today and until I drop her at school on Monday." DA: "No, you have to have primary custody, or we can't take your request for investigation. Go to the judge and get primary custody." Me: "But the DA web site, http://www.sdcda.org/helping_victims/faq.html, says an abduction is when someone takes, entices away, keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a custody or VISITATION ORDER. The law is crystal clear, yet enforcement is impossible. Telling someone to tape phone calls without nowing the state laws is outrright negligent. Well, let's not be too hard on her. I wouldn't do something questionable like that without checking the legality first. Thanks for all the comments and excellent discussion. Jay R. |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
As in passed to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecutor or "DA" will
not have to do anything unless the criminal complaint has be filed with the police. A warrant will not be issues unless the prosecutor presents the complaint to a judge. Each step MUST be taken by the complaintant or no misconduct complaint can be taken against any of the above parties. Hey, this is precisely the kind of procedural detail I was looking for when I originally posted! Thanks. Courts don't 'mean' anything. It is a matter of how the law is written in the legislature. Taking (moving) a child across state lines while denying a specified parenting time......it has nothing to do with establishing residence. Geesh. Right, this is what I've been trying to get across at every juncture. I explain what's happened, and I get "oh she took her out of state just for the weekend? That's not what we deal with here--you should talk to the judge." I then show them the statute, show them my court order, and request that they explain to me how mom's actions aren't a felony under this statute. Then they backpedal and talk in circles about "caseloads," and how they've "never heard of such a thing," and how, "we understand your frustration," until I eventually leave in disgust. The DA's Child Abduction expert even told me "you cannot file a request for investigation with us unless you are the custodial parent." Me: "That doesn't seem fair like a fair policy, but anyway I am the custodial parent, starting at 2:30 p.m. today and until I drop her at school on Monday." DA: "No, you have to have primary custody, or we can't take your request for investigation. Go to the judge and get primary custody." Me: "But the DA web site, http://www.sdcda.org/helping_victims/faq.html, says an abduction is when someone takes, entices away, keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a custody or VISITATION ORDER. The law is crystal clear, yet enforcement is impossible. Telling someone to tape phone calls without nowing the state laws is outrright negligent. Well, let's not be too hard on her. I wouldn't do something questionable like that without checking the legality first. Thanks for all the comments and excellent discussion. Jay R. |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
As in passed to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecutor or "DA" will
not have to do anything unless the criminal complaint has be filed with the police. A warrant will not be issues unless the prosecutor presents the complaint to a judge. Each step MUST be taken by the complaintant or no misconduct complaint can be taken against any of the above parties. Hey, this is precisely the kind of procedural detail I was looking for when I originally posted! Thanks. Courts don't 'mean' anything. It is a matter of how the law is written in the legislature. Taking (moving) a child across state lines while denying a specified parenting time......it has nothing to do with establishing residence. Geesh. Right, this is what I've been trying to get across at every juncture. I explain what's happened, and I get "oh she took her out of state just for the weekend? That's not what we deal with here--you should talk to the judge." I then show them the statute, show them my court order, and request that they explain to me how mom's actions aren't a felony under this statute. Then they backpedal and talk in circles about "caseloads," and how they've "never heard of such a thing," and how, "we understand your frustration," until I eventually leave in disgust. The DA's Child Abduction expert even told me "you cannot file a request for investigation with us unless you are the custodial parent." Me: "That doesn't seem fair like a fair policy, but anyway I am the custodial parent, starting at 2:30 p.m. today and until I drop her at school on Monday." DA: "No, you have to have primary custody, or we can't take your request for investigation. Go to the judge and get primary custody." Me: "But the DA web site, http://www.sdcda.org/helping_victims/faq.html, says an abduction is when someone takes, entices away, keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a custody or VISITATION ORDER. The law is crystal clear, yet enforcement is impossible. Telling someone to tape phone calls without nowing the state laws is outrright negligent. Well, let's not be too hard on her. I wouldn't do something questionable like that without checking the legality first. Thanks for all the comments and excellent discussion. Jay R. |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"JayR" wrote in message om... As in passed to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecutor or "DA" will not have to do anything unless the criminal complaint has be filed with the police. A warrant will not be issues unless the prosecutor presents the complaint to a judge. Each step MUST be taken by the complaintant or no misconduct complaint can be taken against any of the above parties. Hey, this is precisely the kind of procedural detail I was looking for when I originally posted! Thanks. Courts don't 'mean' anything. It is a matter of how the law is written in the legislature. Taking (moving) a child across state lines while denying a specified parenting time......it has nothing to do with establishing residence. Geesh. Right, this is what I've been trying to get across at every juncture. I explain what's happened, and I get "oh she took her out of state just for the weekend? That's not what we deal with here--you should talk to the judge." I then show them the statute, show them my court order, and request that they explain to me how mom's actions aren't a felony under this statute. Then they backpedal and talk in circles about "caseloads," and how they've "never heard of such a thing," and how, "we understand your frustration," until I eventually leave in disgust. If it were me, I'd attempt to file a complaint with the local police dept. If the officer refuses to write up the complaint, then go over his head, upwwards to the mayor / city council if you have to. If the D.A. refuses to process the complaint, find out the legtal reason why, if there is none, go over his head. If they fail to prosecute the law, file a complaint, go to a T.V. station etc. make noise. The DA's Child Abduction expert even told me "you cannot file a request for investigation with us unless you are the custodial parent." Me: "That doesn't seem fair like a fair policy, but anyway I am the custodial parent, starting at 2:30 p.m. today and until I drop her at school on Monday." DA: "No, you have to have primary custody, or we can't take your request for investigation. Go to the judge and get primary custody." Me: "But the DA web site, http://www.sdcda.org/helping_victims/faq.html, says an abduction is when someone takes, entices away, keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a custody or VISITATION ORDER. The law is crystal clear, yet enforcement is impossible. Telling someone to tape phone calls without nowing the state laws is outrright negligent. Well, let's not be too hard on her. I wouldn't do something questionable like that without checking the legality first. Thanks for all the comments and excellent discussion. Jay R. |
#69
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"JayR" wrote in message om... As in passed to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecutor or "DA" will not have to do anything unless the criminal complaint has be filed with the police. A warrant will not be issues unless the prosecutor presents the complaint to a judge. Each step MUST be taken by the complaintant or no misconduct complaint can be taken against any of the above parties. Hey, this is precisely the kind of procedural detail I was looking for when I originally posted! Thanks. Courts don't 'mean' anything. It is a matter of how the law is written in the legislature. Taking (moving) a child across state lines while denying a specified parenting time......it has nothing to do with establishing residence. Geesh. Right, this is what I've been trying to get across at every juncture. I explain what's happened, and I get "oh she took her out of state just for the weekend? That's not what we deal with here--you should talk to the judge." I then show them the statute, show them my court order, and request that they explain to me how mom's actions aren't a felony under this statute. Then they backpedal and talk in circles about "caseloads," and how they've "never heard of such a thing," and how, "we understand your frustration," until I eventually leave in disgust. If it were me, I'd attempt to file a complaint with the local police dept. If the officer refuses to write up the complaint, then go over his head, upwwards to the mayor / city council if you have to. If the D.A. refuses to process the complaint, find out the legtal reason why, if there is none, go over his head. If they fail to prosecute the law, file a complaint, go to a T.V. station etc. make noise. The DA's Child Abduction expert even told me "you cannot file a request for investigation with us unless you are the custodial parent." Me: "That doesn't seem fair like a fair policy, but anyway I am the custodial parent, starting at 2:30 p.m. today and until I drop her at school on Monday." DA: "No, you have to have primary custody, or we can't take your request for investigation. Go to the judge and get primary custody." Me: "But the DA web site, http://www.sdcda.org/helping_victims/faq.html, says an abduction is when someone takes, entices away, keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a custody or VISITATION ORDER. The law is crystal clear, yet enforcement is impossible. Telling someone to tape phone calls without nowing the state laws is outrright negligent. Well, let's not be too hard on her. I wouldn't do something questionable like that without checking the legality first. Thanks for all the comments and excellent discussion. Jay R. |
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How can I prosecute Child Stealing / Custodial Interference (CAL PC 278.5)
"JayR" wrote in message om... As in passed to the prosecuting attorney. The prosecutor or "DA" will not have to do anything unless the criminal complaint has be filed with the police. A warrant will not be issues unless the prosecutor presents the complaint to a judge. Each step MUST be taken by the complaintant or no misconduct complaint can be taken against any of the above parties. Hey, this is precisely the kind of procedural detail I was looking for when I originally posted! Thanks. Courts don't 'mean' anything. It is a matter of how the law is written in the legislature. Taking (moving) a child across state lines while denying a specified parenting time......it has nothing to do with establishing residence. Geesh. Right, this is what I've been trying to get across at every juncture. I explain what's happened, and I get "oh she took her out of state just for the weekend? That's not what we deal with here--you should talk to the judge." I then show them the statute, show them my court order, and request that they explain to me how mom's actions aren't a felony under this statute. Then they backpedal and talk in circles about "caseloads," and how they've "never heard of such a thing," and how, "we understand your frustration," until I eventually leave in disgust. If it were me, I'd attempt to file a complaint with the local police dept. If the officer refuses to write up the complaint, then go over his head, upwwards to the mayor / city council if you have to. If the D.A. refuses to process the complaint, find out the legtal reason why, if there is none, go over his head. If they fail to prosecute the law, file a complaint, go to a T.V. station etc. make noise. The DA's Child Abduction expert even told me "you cannot file a request for investigation with us unless you are the custodial parent." Me: "That doesn't seem fair like a fair policy, but anyway I am the custodial parent, starting at 2:30 p.m. today and until I drop her at school on Monday." DA: "No, you have to have primary custody, or we can't take your request for investigation. Go to the judge and get primary custody." Me: "But the DA web site, http://www.sdcda.org/helping_victims/faq.html, says an abduction is when someone takes, entices away, keeps, withholds or conceals a child in violation of a custody or VISITATION ORDER. The law is crystal clear, yet enforcement is impossible. Telling someone to tape phone calls without nowing the state laws is outrright negligent. Well, let's not be too hard on her. I wouldn't do something questionable like that without checking the legality first. Thanks for all the comments and excellent discussion. Jay R. |
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