Question:

Urgent in NY - I have been divorced for over two years and have been paying 8k/month in CS and 4k/month in maintenance. My bonus this year was paid mostly in stock that will not vest for another three years so my cash flow was severely hampered. I stopped paying the maintenance 3 months ago and have continually tried to renegotiate with my ex to find a solution. We have three little boys and she does not work.

In short, I was just sent a certified letter from a lawyer that she will take me to court to allow her to move to another state 500 miles away if I do not allow her to. It is written in our divorce agreement that she cannot move more than 30 miles away. I have an extremely close relationship with my boys and they have been sleeping over for OEW and Wed nights for many years. I live 5 minutes from them now.

My question is - does my recent suspension of the maintenance payments have a bearing? She is claiming financial hardship and that she will be able to find work easier in the new state. I am considering filing for custody or should I negotiate with her financially? For me, it is not an option to have my boys 500 miles away. I coach their teams, help with homework, do cub scouts etc.   Please help asap - the letter says I have one more week to respond.

Question:

My ex wants to take my 3 yr old daughter out of the state for spring break. I want to know if I have any say in this decision because I really don't think I'll ever see her again.

This is a never ending battle with her always trying to change our custody order or wanting to take her out of the state for weeks at a time.  Please, if you can, help.