I have been trawling the internet for advice as my ex wife has become more and more unstable regarding our daughter and my access to her. The reason, as you may guess already, is donw to money. But everything on the web seems to be 90% aimed at single women, dads are left to fend for themselves!
Call me silly, but as my main priority was getting to see my daughter i (possibly follishly) agreed to pay half the mortgage, half the nursery fees and a little extra for her needs. Now, three years on and in dufferent circumstances, its obvious to me Ive been played. My ex claims all the benefits possible, including full nursery fee's, but is insisting on the same amount of money despite my taking a drastic pay cut, and my daughter living with me for half of the week.
Now dont get me wrong, I have no problems with the continuation of supporting my daughter, but not my ex wifes convertable, her three week USA holidays (the furthest Ive managed is Wales!!) and her nights out with various guys (I have nosey ex neighbours who like to fill me in despite my looks of non interest!).
Am I wrong to question her about why I have to pay so much when she clearly is milking me for what she can get? And is her threat of stopping me seeing my daughter fair or even legal?!
Help...and believe me I would appreciate advice from both sides.
Hi ares372, welcome to One Space.
There is a legal amount that you have to pay your ex for maintence, work it out here on the Maintenance Calulator - this is regardless of whether you see your daughter or not. If you are sharing care, then the amount will be less.
Your ex's threat of stopping you seeing your daughter for money reasons, I don't believe, is illegal, however if she were to stop contact it is highly likely that a Judge would allow it, unless you are a danger to your daughter (ie violent, neglectful or a drug/alcohol abuse). I would suggest you seek some legal advice.
Have you divorced? Were there any legal agreements made?
Hi ares372. Welcome along. I know you feel at a loss, but here at One Space, you can e.mail CAB for money advice. This is the link here It's totally confidential, and you'll hear back from them within a few days I'm sure.