Getting out of a Domestic Violence Situation when you have Children

In the United States it illegal to cross state or county lines with a child without the consent of the other parent. If you have to flee or leave the house in a hurry you need to file what is called a Good cause report with the local District Attorneys office within 9 days of leaving. This means you have to send a letter to the D.A. stating that you are not kidnapping the child but leaving because you fear for you and your childs safety. This is very important. If you fail to do so the other parent could charge you with kidnapping and you risk having your children taken away from you. The good cause report is only valid for 30 days. After this time, some sort of legal custody has to be established in court. If your child is a U.S. Citizen and you need a passport for him/her please check http://travel.state.gov/family/abduction_prevention.html for details. Be aware that you may not be able to leave the country without your spouse's written consent.

Return to the list of help links