common law marriage in regards of children

[Beverly Gerard]

I have a 22 year old daughter that has been with her boyfriend for 8 1/2 years and they have broken up. They have two children out of wedlock. The ex-boyfriend won't let my daughter have the children or see them. I would like to know how the law regards common law marriages in the state of Iowa. Also need some info in regards of the custody of the children.

 

[Kelly143]

You need to check to see if Iowa even recognizes common law marriages. Many states don't. Especially if she is only 22 now, has she been living with him since she was 14?? Where are the children now? Does she have ANY access to them at all? Unless there is an order giving him custody, she can just go and get the children and there is nothing he can do about it. She then needs to file for custody and support Immediately. If he refuses to give her the children, she will have to take him to court for custody. Make sure she documents everything he does and says regarding the children. The courts don't look kindly on parents who keep children from the other parent.