Child Custody Issue — domestic partnership property rights

I'm dealing with a situation and need some guidance.

domestic partnership property rights. I've been dealing with this for about 7 weeks now and the situation isn't improving.

I have already consulted briefly with a lawyer but got conflicting advice.

Am I overthinking this or is this a real legal issue worth pursuing?

Have you tried reaching out to your state's consumer protection office? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

Have you tried reaching out to your state's attorney general? They sometimes have free resources or mediation services.

I practice in this area. Here's my take on the legal issues.

Based on what you've described, you likely have a viable claim under the relevant statute. The standard is whether a reasonable person would find the conduct actionable.

One important thing — there are strict deadlines for filing these claims. Don't wait too long.

I had a similar issue and ended up consulting with an attorney. It was worth the $200-300 for the initial consultation just to understand my rights.

NAL, but from what I've read, you should check your state's specific laws. That said, definitely get a lawyer to look at the specifics.

NAL, but from what I've read, you should check your state's specific laws. That said, definitely get a lawyer to look at the specifics.

NAL, but from what I've read, you should send a written demand. That said, definitely get a lawyer to look at the specifics.

Just want to point out — the statute of limitations might be a factor here. In some states it's as short as 1-2 years. Don't sit on this too long.

We were never married but have two kids together (ages 4 and 7). Splitting up amicably and trying to work out custody without going to court. Can we just write up our own agreement?

You can absolutely negotiate your own parenting plan, and I encourage it — parents who create their own arrangements tend to comply with them better than court-imposed orders. But for it to be legally enforceable, you need to:

1. File it with the court: An informal agreement between parents isn't enforceable until a judge signs it as a court order. If one parent later violates the agreement, you can't enforce it without a court order.
2. Cover the essentials: Legal custody (decision-making), physical custody (residential schedule), holiday/vacation schedule, transportation responsibilities, right of first refusal, communication protocols, and dispute resolution (mediation before litigation).
3. Address child support: Even if you agree on an amount, most states require child support calculations to follow guidelines. A court will review your agreement to ensure it meets the child's needs.

A family law mediator ($200-$400/session) can help you draft a comprehensive agreement and file it. Much cheaper than adversarial attorneys and preserves your co-parenting relationship.