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What If Your Ex Runs Away with Your Child? | Lawyers Without Billboards S2-Ep23
Description
What happens when a parent takes a child and disappears?
In this episode of Lawyers Without Billboards, the attorneys at Shewmaker & Lewis tackle one of the most frightening concerns parents face during custody disputes: child abduction by a parent or family member.
The discussion explores real-world cases of domestic and international child abduction, the controversial story of Faye Yager and Children of the Underground, and the legal tools available to help prevent a parent from fleeing with a child. From custody orders and passport alerts to travel restrictions and court-imposed safeguards, the hosts explain what parents can do when they fear a child may be taken.
You'll also learn how Amber Alerts actually work, why most family abduction cases don't qualify, and what courts can realistically do when concerns about child abduction arise.
Whether you're navigating a custody dispute or simply want to understand your rights, this episode offers practical insights into one of family law's most serious issues.
⏱️ Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:55 What Is Family Child Abduction?
02:15 The Story of Faye Yager & Children of the Underground
07:10 Family Abductions vs. Stranger Abductions
10:15 Real Cases of Parents Taking Children Across State Lines
12:10 International Child Abduction Concerns
13:25 How Courts Can Help Prevent Child Abduction
14:15 Passport Alert Programs & Do-Not-Depart Orders
16:10 Habitual Residence and Hague Convention Considerations
17:30 Why a Custody Order Is Your Best Protection
18:20 Are Amber Alerts Effective?
22:40 Using Bonds to Deter Child Abduction
25:35 Can Child Abduction Ever Be Justified?
27:50 Final Thoughts
🔔 Subscribe for candid conversations about family law, relationships, and the legal system - without the billboards.
🎙️ Hosts: Steve & Patty Shewmaker, Jimmy & Alexa Lewis
🎧 Watch here: https://youtu.be/9y0vPomVCn8 or listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, and more.
📩 Contact: pshewmaker@shewmakerandlewis.com
| (770) 939-1939
🌐 Website: https://www.shewmakerandlewis.com
🎧 Podcast Library: https://shewmakerandlewis.com/lawyers-without-billboards
🎼 Music by Ben Hernandez – Dragonsong Productions
🎥 Produced by: Bleeding Edge, Inc.
🎬 Audio & Video Production: Rob Burgner
📍 Recorded at: Shewmaker & Lewis, Atlanta, GA