Child Custody

questions & answers

Question: MY MOM HAS A HUSBAND THAT DOES REALLY BAD THINGS TO ME AND MY SISTER AND PUTS HIS HANDS ON MY MOM WE MOVED TO MY GRANDMAS BUT MY MOM SAID WE HAVE TO MOVE BACK AND I WANT TO STAY WITH GRANDMA WHAT DO I DO

Answer:

I am so sorry about what you are going through.  Your question did not give a lot of information - but it sounds as though the situation is very upsetting to you.  If you are being abused, it is important for you tell other adults so that they can protect you (your sister - and even your mom).  If you feel concerned for your safety call 911. Talk to your mother about the situation.  If that does not work, then talk to your grandmother, a teacher, a school counselor, a police officer - talk to someone!  Keep talking until someone listens!!    It may be scary at first but if "bad things" are being done to you and your sister, you have the right to have it stopped.  You are very brave to reach out and ask questions. That is the hardest part. 

Just so you know, Arizona defines abuse as follows:

ARS §8-201(2) "Abuse" means the infliction or allowing of physical injury, impairment of bodily function or disfigurement or the infliction of or allowing another person to cause serious emotional damage as evidenced by severe anxiety, depression, withdrawal or untoward aggressive behavior and which emotional damage is diagnosed by a medical doctor or psychologist pursuant to section 8-223 and which is caused by the acts or omissions of an individual having care, custody and control of a child. Abuse shall include inflicting or allowing sexual abuse pursuant to section 13-1404, sexual conduct with a minor pursuant to section 13-1405, sexual assault pursuant to section 13-1406, molestation of a child pursuant to section 13-1410. 

There is a child abuse hotline through Child Protective Services ("CPS").  Arizona Child Abuse Hotline at 1-888-SOS-CHILD (1-888-767-2445).   The CPS website has a lot of information which may provide answers to additional questions you have. 

Always remember, if you are in danger you can call 9-1-1.