I have consulted with an attorney over the phone and have an appointment for Monday scheduled.
Michigan is a no fault state. There is a mandatory 6 mo cooling off period when minor children are involved. I learned that I could not be in a better county in the entire state for father's rights. However, that does not mean she couldn't pursue and win full custody. It's just going to be beneficial for me with any of the three judges that I'm already firmly at middle ground. If they see an unwillingness from her to compromise or any attempt to alienate me from my kids, they will not think too highly of her position. However, she does have a huge argument in moving closer to her work. It would almost force me to counter with my own full custody position. That's where things stop being favorable for me. I know I'm in a good county. I know 50/50 would be best for my children, but sometimes its just not feasible to accommodate both sides.
That's what has me bothered. Neither of us have any grounds (substantiated) to claim the other is a poor parent. If she comes with anything, it would be a fabrication or opinion issue. There was comfort in hearing from the attorney tell me they have seen situations where even a "hands off" dad has received 50/50 with a SAHM. My wife claims she stayed in the same county to allow me to see my kids, but she certainly has the right to change her mind as long as it's not over 100 miles away. However, in return she expects me to give full physical custody apparently.
I've made up my mind to fight for my kids. I wish that guaranteed I will get them. I do not want to lose hope for R, but if I had to trade that for my kids I would do it every time. I would like to think we could behave in a civil and reasonable manner through this. If we don't I think it spells doom for R later. If I fight and lose somehow, everything that matters will be gone. Right now it's a thought I cannot fathom.
