Guardianship of Minor

questions & answers

Question: my wife separated from me 4 years ago. she took my son and my stepdaughter with her. I am wondering what rights I may have to see my son and if I have any rights to see my stepdaughter that I raised for five years.

Answer: You do not say where she moved when she took the kids.  Nor do you say why you have waited 4 years to see your child.  Do you know where she is?  Do you pay child support?  Is there a written custody order issued by the court?  You need to speak with a lawyer.  There are three programs in Arizona that you can use to get inexpensive legal advice and guidance.  One is the modest means program.  You will need to apply for the program and meet the financial qualifications.  Once you are qualified, Modest Means will send you a list of attorneys whose practice covers your area of concern.  You select a lawyer from the list and will be entitled to a one hour consultation for $75.  If you need additional help and if the lawyer agrees to take your case, the most you will be charged is $75 per hours.  the telephone number is (866) 637-5341.  Both Maricopa County and Pima County have lawyer referral programs that offer a 30 minute consult with an attorney.  Maricopa County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consult with an experienced attorney for $40.  The telephone number is  (602) 257-4434.  Pima County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute attorney consult for $35.  The telephone number is (520) 623-4625.