Because 2 years ago, I shared a story of despair, I wanted to share one of hope for the fathers out there. And also some advice. After a brutal 2-year custody battle, where my ex tried to gain sole custody and move the kids 3000 miles away, earlier this week it took the judge 10 minutes to tear up the custody evaluation, the mother's case, etc and it was over, just like that. And then the judge apologized to me for how long it took to get through the courts which in no way made up for the anguish I've suffered. During the past 2 years and spectre of losing my kids, there have been some very very dark times. Never. Give. Up.

Some notes on my process: 1) There is rampant sexism in our family court system and under the La Musga provision here in California (an abomination of the legal system) a woman can claim EMOTIONAL abuse with absolutely no hard evidence. 2) Remember that your opponent can make/allege anything they want in family court so don't give them even the least bit of kindling, etc, 3) be very very careful about the custody evaluator your chose or agree to) your entire case could hinge on that. and 4) If your spouse decides to make a lot of crazy requests (custody, move away, etc), the cost of fighting those will be ridiculous and so budget accordingly . If anyone has specific questions on the process I'd be happy to answer them as best I can. Never. Give.Up.