Your problem is very common in our mobile society. I am sorry that your spirit of cooperation with your ex’s work schedule changes has not been reciprocated now when you need it. (Note that in Florida, ‘visitation’ is now called ‘timesharing’. Same idea, new term.)
Your schedule change and the suggestion you have offered -holidays and summers visitation only, down from three weekends per month- will result in a significant drop in your visitation time and possibly result in higher child support. Child support is calculated in part on the amount of overnight visits your children have with you.
Here are some suggestions for you: First, do not sacrifice your job over this issue. You are correct that it is the source of income for both your child support and your new family as well. Second, you should contact a qualified parenting coordinator to see if you and your ex can work with the parenting coordinator to craft a new visitation arrangement that will offer you more than just ‘holidays and summer’ until your work schedule is more accommodating. Alternatively, if you cannot find a qualified parenting coordinator then locate a certified family mediator to meet with both of you as a neutral and see if a new arrangement can be drafted for approval by the court. If all of those options just will not be feasible, you can return to court for a new arrangement, but this is the least desirable and likely most expensive option.
Your kids need a devoted dad like you, and you should not give up. Good luck!
Answered on Aug 07th, 2018 at 7:33 AM