Hope and heartache

[billclay18]

The only way I can negotiate a lower CS payment is if we have 50/50 physical custody. I can't see W and W's L going for that.

Doesn't matter if they agree to it. If the children are with you half the time or more...you deserve no less than 50/50. If they won't agree to it, then your L can suggest mediation. Document the time with your D's, present your case to the mediator and see what they recommend. If you have to leave it up to the judge to decide...what do you have to lose? Nothing...worst case you'll get the standard 80/20 split. You are in the driver's seat here. Your job allows you to spend more time with your D's, your W's job does not. This weighs heavily in your favor.

L suggested I begin keeping a calendar of my day-to-day, week-to-week responsibilities.

Great advice from your L. Make your case for the mediator.

I've been telling you this from the start. I'm in IL as well and have been thru this. I could write a book on how a father should not only fight for his children, but also for his right to an equitable quality of life. I got the settlement I did because I refused to fall into the trap of thinking the W gets the kids, the house, the huge CS payment and the H get the shaft. H's get the shaft because they don't have the balls to fight for their children or themselves.

Grab your balls, regain your self respect and fight for what your entitled to.

If you want to discuss this in detail, let me know and I'll post my email address.