Can a Circuit Court Judge force a parent to sign form DS-11 for non medical reasons?

by Raymond
(Warren, Mi 48092)

Question: My son has joint legal custody and the mother has physical custody of our two-year-old grandson. The mother filed through her attorney to have my son sign DS-3035 under his protest. Is it possible that a Judge Name Withheld in Michigan has the authority to force him to sign away his right to keep his son in the USA?

Answer: It is my understanding that a parent who has shared custody of a minor child may request a court order which obliges the other parent to sign the passport consent form. It is also my understanding that a judge may "require" the parent sign the consent form if s/he believes that the trip is in the best interest of the child and that there is no risk of international child abduction.

This should not be taken as legal advice. You should encourage your son to seek legal counsel if he believes that a passport should not be issued for the child.