Custody talks with wife on the way.

[bk1026]

What is the name of your state? NY

Separated and starting to discuss separation\child custody agreement with wife. 1. 3 kids (6, 6 & 7).
2. No property other than a TimeShare.
3. IRS bill looming.

Involved father. Loving and nurturing. Kids are with wife and I'm w\Mom. I have been paying bills since she was out of work and obtaining degree. She just started working & making 80K a year (12k more than me).

Relationship was failing for sometime now but I would like to salvage as much of the existing relationship with the kids as possible. I'm not confrontational but she does manage to push some buttons...I just walk away. I don't wan't anything from her and am happy about new job and salary because she is the mother.

How do I manage these talks best?
Should I avoid 50/50 custody talks at first?
Should I claim kids to show financial care?

I'm at a lost and feeling at a huge disadvantage as a father. Credits bad. No savings. Just want to show my kids I still love them.

Help.

 

[fammy69]

well first u need to attend mediation and try to resolve those issues(custody)with a mediator,some judges like 50/50, others don't, second, in CA, child support is based through the disometer(spelling?)a complicated computer program. i am not sure about what u mean by "claiming", like on taxes? if u were the only one working and u have supported ur family solely, then u should take the child tax credit. as far as IRS bill, was it filed jointly or seperately. they will go after u if filed seperately