She texts me she’s taking our daughter to Southern California. She wants to have my daughter during the school year and for me to have her during the summers. Right now, we’re less than 15 minutes away. I have many reasons for why this is a bad idea. But can I do something about it? Do I have a choice in the matter? I thought so—protested a little. And her next response is we should do this over mediation. Damn.
Not to take action, not to sue, just to understand what your situation is. This is a big honking deal in your life, it's worth $300-$500 to talk with a lawyer and understand exactly what your situation is and what your rights and responsibilities are, and those of your wife, before you potentially lose your daughter or move down to Socal and leave your support network.
A similar situation happened in my own family. As the child was distanced from the father she was also distanced from that whole side of extended family. It really hurt us all, most especially my grandma. Challenging it might not just be something you do for yourself.
Talk to a lawyer.
Not to take action, not to sue, just to understand what your situation is. This is a big honking deal in your life, it's worth $300-$500 to talk with a lawyer and understand exactly what your situation is and what your rights and responsibilities are, and those of your wife, before you potentially lose your daughter or move down to Socal and leave your support network.
I would challenge it for sure.
good luck, with whatever you decide to do.
A similar situation happened in my own family. As the child was distanced from the father she was also distanced from that whole side of extended family. It really hurt us all, most especially my grandma. Challenging it might not just be something you do for yourself.