I think my wife wants a divorce; what are my options?
Thank you for your patience.
If she already has sole physical custody and joint legal custody, you likely have some say in major decisions (education, health, religion), but your child lives with her primarily. If there’s no formal visitation schedule, or if it's not being honored, that’s something you can pursue or modify.
If she hasn’t filed yet, you can still try to communicate or mediate, but legally prepare in case she does.
Document everything, keep records of parenting involvement, texts, emails, and any disrespect or denial of visitation. If she’s threatening to cut you off from your child or is speaking badly about you to the child, document it.
Hire a family law attorney. Even if you want to reconcile, you need legal advice on how to maintain or increase parenting time, avoid being cut out of decision-making and prepare for any false allegations or custody maneuvers.
Most states favor shared custody unless there’s abuse, addiction, or neglect.
Avoid escalating conflict. Don't retaliate or try to control her new relationships — that could hurt you in court. Focus on showing that you're a stable, involved parent.
If she files for Divorce, you can request joint physical custody (if you’re active and able), a set parenting schedule and mediation instead of trial (some courts require this). You don’t lose rights just because she’s angry or moved on.
Is there anything else you would like me to explain or any additional information you need? Feel free to ask.
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Parenting Plan
Full Conversation
I think my wife is trying to get a divorce from me.
Lexi, Chatbot
I'm sorry to hear that you're going through this. Have you and your wife discussed the possibility of divorce?
She hates my guts.
Lexi, Chatbot
Are there any specific reasons or issues that have led you to believe that your wife is seeking a divorce?
We have both had other relationships. I want to get back together, but she does not.
Lexi, Chatbot
Is there anything else the Family Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your marital issues.
No.
Queeneth E. Esq
Hello and welcome to AskaLawyer. My name is Queeneth. I am an attorney with over 8 years of legal experience. I will do my best to assist you today. First I need to ask you a few questions to give you the best answer
(Kindly note that our conversation does not establish attorney-client relationship.)
Queeneth E. Esq
What are your main concerns or fears regarding the potential divorce?
That she will get full custody.
She already had solo physical and joint legal custody.
Queeneth E. Esq
Thank you for the feedback. Please allow me some time to prepare a response. I will get back to you shortly. During our chat, the site may ask you whether you would like a second opinion. While you are always welcome to seek a second opinion, please note that once you do so, our chat will be closed automatically, and I will no longer be able to respond to you. So, I recommend waiting until we have completed our conversation before accepting an offer for a second opinion.
Queeneth E. Esq
Thank you for your patience.
If she already has sole physical custody and joint legal custody, you likely have some say in major decisions (education, health, religion), but your child lives with her primarily. If there’s no formal visitation schedule, or if it's not being honored, that’s something you can pursue or modify.
If she hasn’t filed yet, you can still try to communicate or mediate, but legally prepare in case she does.
Document everything, keep records of parenting involvement, texts, emails, and any disrespect or denial of visitation. If she’s threatening to cut you off from your child or is speaking badly about you to the child, document it.
Hire a family law attorney. Even if you want to reconcile, you need legal advice on how to maintain or increase parenting time, avoid being cut out of decision-making and prepare for any false allegations or custody maneuvers.
Most states favor shared custody unless there’s abuse, addiction, or neglect.
Avoid escalating conflict. Don't retaliate or try to control her new relationships — that could hurt you in court. Focus on showing that you're a stable, involved parent.
If she files for Divorce, you can request joint physical custody (if you’re active and able), a set parenting schedule and mediation instead of trial (some courts require this). You don’t lose rights just because she’s angry or moved on.
Is there anything else you would like me to explain or any additional information you need? Feel free to ask.
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3
Answered 4 days ago
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