Can anyone explain to me what the difference is between simply being the "petitioner" in a divorce, and being the managing conservator of a child? I wanted my son to have time with his father, and agreed to let him have him every other week, but it's a disaster. He's just as bad as before, and leaves our diabetic child with his girlfriend, and rarely spends time with him. And that time is usually spent yelling, spanking, etc. My son wants to live with me most of the time, but my ex is very competitive and says he will "crush me like a bug" in court. He's said that even if my son chooses me, now that he's old enough, that it won't make a difference, because we are already joint managing conservators. I've moved and can't find the papers, so I'll get a copy tomorrow. And an attorney. But it's on my mind tonight! He threatens me all the time. My son doesn't want to go with his dad tomorrow, and it's a fight every other week. I don't know what to do! I will see the lawyer, but if anyone has been through this, thoughts would be appreciated. I always choose a best answer. Thanks.

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divorce affects children

A couple of questions:

1. Are you a Thai national? If not, is your spouse (x spouse, presumably) a Thai national?

2. Where do you reside? In Thailand or elsewhere?

I get the impression you divorced your Thai husband and you still reside in Thailand?

I believe both are US-citizens living in Thailand and currently going through divorce.

That means that preliminary arrangement are made, but nothing final. If final, changes can be made based on changed circumstances but would require a valid grounds, such as mistreatment.

I would gather as much evidence as possible to use in the divorce proceedings, where the custody settlement will also be handled.