In child support court cases, parents are legally obligated to financially support their children regardless of personal circumstances, and courts will hold parents accountable by calculating support based on actual income and ensuring that grandparents or caregivers who raise children receive proper financial assistance.
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9 Parents Thought They Could Win — Judge Vonda B Shut Them Down ColdAjouté :
You all may be seated.
Okay. Is it Miss or Mrs. Compost?
>> Mrs. M. Okay. You brought this case before the court. What's going on? Well, I'm bringing my son to court to see if I can get some assistance for his son, my grandson, Julian. Um, he's 6 years old.
Uh, Juan and and Julian's mom were together up until about 3 years ago. had a good life, beautiful home. They were set. Then one day he comes to me. I've never talked to her since she left him.
She abandoned him. She abandoned the whole family, including the grandson.
Um, so he comes and he says, "Look, she's gone." And whatever. Okay. I just need some help with Julian because she left him, too. Well, of course, I'm going to say yes. you know, uh, at that time it was just me and my husband. Um, so Julian had his grandpa, he had me, and everything was fine. Well, last year, grandpa passed away.
>> I'm sorry about that.
>> Thank you. And things have gotten tougher because of that. So, to the point where uh I came out of retirement, I'm Ubering when Julian's at school and um his life hasn't changed at all. He's still literally in the house that he was in when they were a family. And uh he doesn't visit like Julian's like detached from him because it's been 3 years that he'll come around.
>> I do see him. you know, >> I do see him >> and I'll give to you >> and um >> he comes around, but uh I don't get any financial support. I don't see that his life has changed at all.
>> And uh we had to move out of the house that me and my husband shared and >> Judge Vonda listens as a grieving grandmother explains how everything changed after her husband passed away.
Forced out of retirement, she's now driving for Uber just to keep her six-year-old grandson stable after both parents disappeared from the responsibilities of raising him.
>> Unfortunately, in this big city, the best place I could find is literally a one-bedroom.
So, thank goodness Julian's small right now.
He can sleep on the sofa without too much discomfort. I have the bedroom. And uh so when he comes over and visits, of course, he can't stay cuz there's no place for him to sit. These are his words. He can't stay. And um Julian just he's just like some man that comes over cuz he comes over so rarely.
Uh what really ticked me off was a little bit back ago, he went and bought Julian some clothes. He also bought himself some clothes. But what my grandson had told me was that if he could have some shoes, like one. And I said, "What do you mean?" He got you some new shoes. No. He said, "We went to the mall. We got his clothes, his shoes, and then he stopped at Walmart on the way home and got Julian stuff."
I guess cuz it's cheaper. I get it. I I mean, poor Julian. He's getting Walmart from me. He's getting Walmart from him.
But Julian was with him. He was literally with him and he took him and I thought they were going to, you know, maybe things had changed with him, whatever.
>> If I could please explain your honor.
>> You can.
>> Okay.
>> After your mother is dying.
>> Okay. Sorry, Mom.
>> And and uh and then uh since my husband's passing, I need uh to get medical insurance for him, you know, anytime. even to take them to the the free clinic is not really free. I've still got to pay whatever the prescriptions are. Uh and um and then the finances, you know, I mean, so I went and tried to get him some medical coverage, food stamps.
Well, they tell me no because with the Medicaid, they needed his information.
They said that he's under child support.
The the mother has been paying the state child support all these years. Okay.
Wait. So, she's been paying child support to him apparently. So, I don't I haven't seen one dime.
Okay.
All right. And so Julian is under Medicaid.
>> I couldn't get him under Medicaid because >> You couldn't get him under?
>> I couldn't. That's how I found out about the child support. When I asked him about it on that on the visit that he made to buy the clothes, he said that no, it it's he doesn't get in. He doesn't know where it's going to this and that. But I know the deeper she talks, the more painful the situation becomes. The child is sleeping on a sofa in a tiny one-bedroom apartment while his father still lives comfortably in the same large home they once shared as a family. Then comes the shocking discovery. The mother has been sending child support all along, but the grandmother never saw a single dollar.
>> I know one there's that money. He knows what I'm talking about. You know, he knows he's getting it, but I'm not getting it.
>> Okay. So, you just want one to pay child support and you have the opportunity to get health insurance.
Well, according to them, yeah, health insurance. uh because I'm paying out of pocket these last 3 years and uh I understood that they weren't wouldn't even qualify him for Medicaid because according to them he's got medical coverage but I don't know where that medical coverage is >> under mom >> the mom or him or somebody's got him covered but I don't have the information that I need to go take him to the doctor.
>> I understand. I understand. I follow you. Well, is there anything else you want me to know? Um because there is some information I need and you just don't have it and hopefully Mr. Compost has it. Um is there anything else you want me to know or can I move over to him? Yeah, I just want to know. I mean, uh like I tell you, he plays dumb, but I just can't believe that he's let me come out of pocket, you know? Uh when when grandpa was around, it was easier. We could pay these things. And but now it's it's a it's serious that I can't even get him for a common cold without having to Uber almost 20 I mean I Uber doesn't pay anything and my pension doesn't take care of it.
>> Okay. Okay. So let's move over to Mr. Compost. I'm not going to call you by your first name.
>> Okay.
>> Mr. Compost. Okay. So is it indeed a fact that you have been receiving child support from the mother of your son?
>> Yes. Yes. Yes, I have.
>> Best. Okay.
>> And you didn't tell your mom?
>> No, I I I didn't feel the need to. Um >> Okay. Wait a minute. Wait a minute.
>> Is it true that your son, your six-year-old, has been living with your mom for 3 years?
>> Off and on? Not totally. All three years. Off and on. I I do.
>> What do you mean by off and on? Like on the weekend when you pick him up or when you pick him up and go. I'm a promoter for a club. So, I do need help. And I thought that was the agreement to to go ahead and help me when I'm out of town, you know, and I'm not, as she says, I do have the house, but I'm I'm really there, you know, and I do need help. He He can't stay by himself in a house that big at 6 years old. I don't know. I know I couldn't, but >> Okay. Well, um, you'd agree with me that help means that you need to give her something, right?
>> I And and I do pay the healthcare. Um, the the 150 I do pay.
>> Wait a minute. So, >> when the judge turns to the son, his answers only raise more questions. He admits he's been receiving support payments and even paying for health insurance, yet never gave his own mother the insurance information she desperately needed to take care of the child's medical needs.
>> That's that's the missing missing link here. So, you pay health insurance for your son already?
>> Yes, I pay the 150.
>> Why didn't you tell your mother that?
Why haven't you given her a health insurance card? Why haven't you given her anything? That's not fair.
>> It it it's not. But I paid for it. I thought that was, you know, all I needed to do for my side. I I didn't realize I needed to tell my mom everything.
>> Well, it's not serving Julian. What?
Wait a minute, Mr. Compost. Who takes him to the doctor?
>> Well, I haven't recently, you know.
>> Okay. So, it's fair to say that your mom probably does it, right?
>> Yes.
So, wouldn't it logically follow that she needs a insurance card or the information?
>> Yes. And it's just that I >> So, you're letting your mom take your son to the doctor and they have to call you or something to verify his insurance. That just does not make any sense.
>> Your honor, excuse me. They don't call him to verify. I didn't know this exist.
Everything has come out of my pension or my Uber money >> tips or whatever. I I I I had no idea until I tried to file for these services that they said that Julian was getting child support. And I have told him, "Hey, I mean, I I've got my son's phone number. I have told him, hey, you this kid doesn't feel well. This is going on, that's going on." Uh even for a physical for him to play the T-ball and his >> Oh, you're paying out right now. She's literally paying out of pocket, but your son is covered under health insurance.
Yes.
>> So, your mom is not only taking care of your son's medical needs, she's taking care of his daily needs.
>> Mhm.
>> And you don't want to help her?
>> Uh, I I do want to help her. And I thought she had all the help she needed.
When when papa passed away, he he left quite a bit of money for her. And I thought, you know, it was >> You just said key words. He left a quite a bit of money for her.
>> Yes. Not for your son. Not for you.
>> Yes. And and she keeps talking about going to Uber and such, but that's a pretty nice ring on her finger she has there. Don't know how many tips.
>> You got me years ago. This is not something I bought in the last 3 years.
Matter.
>> Um because she says she does Uber and such. I mean, if it's really that low, wouldn't she?
>> Oh my god. Mr. Compost. No.
>> Okay. Sorry.
>> Obviously came here to waste my time.
What kind of club promoter are you?
Well, the courtroom tension explodes as the judge realizes the grandmother has been paying medical bills entirely out of pocket while the child was technically insured the whole time.
Instead of helping the woman raising his son, the father starts criticizing her finances and even mocks the jewelry she wears. I >> I'm sure you've seen me around. Probably not.
>> No, I haven't. You don't look familiar at all, but you you're looking real unfamiliar right now. I I can't even tell this is your mother right now.
>> This is my mother. I love her.
>> Well, I can't tell. You're not paying your mother. You're not helping your mother. She helped you, but I don't believe that she intended to help you for life. I don't believe she intended to raise your son. I mean, she raised you. She's a grandmother for crying out loud.
>> Yes, >> your honor. We when when when my husband passed away and since he lives alone in this big house, I told him we were going to have to move to a a a one-bedroom apartment, uh or we could come stay with him. I have my private room, Julian have his private room, and he would have his private room.
>> Yeah. So, what's what's the deal with that? You're okay with your mother in this one bedroom? Why can't she stay in the big house?
>> Well, >> inconvenience. He said it would be very inconvenient.
>> How big is this house? mixing up my words at >> maybe 800 ft most. Uh maybe two bedroomedroom, you know, half half closet. It's it's not as big as she's it's not as big as she's saying. It's >> my apartment is 800 square feet. You're you're describing a room in the house that's 800 ft.
>> Uh I may have my math wrong a little bit. It's not that big as she's saying.
It's it's really nice.
>> How big is this house? How many?
>> It's in the nice houses in Plano. So you can imagine it's not it's not a I mean it's a nice house. because him and Julian's mom >> both do this promoting thing >> and they can see but she was making good money like he makes I don't know to the penny what he makes but they were living very very comfortably >> and uh but he started this since Julian was born the free babysitting that a grandmother that loves her kids shouldn't have to be paid and this and that I never asked him for I didn't need to, but since becoming a widow, it's become critical.
>> Okay. All right, Mr. Compost, how much money do you make a year?
>> Uh, 48,000.
>> Really?
>> Yes.
>> You make $48,000 a year and you live in this big house in Plano.
>> Well, then that's where all the money >> club promoting.
>> That's where all the money goes to to the house to make sure it's, you know, I have so many.
>> That's the job support. They didn't give me the amount because I'm not on the case, right? But who knows how much she's paying.
>> How much do you receive in child support? Because if she makes that kind of money, >> just just a grand. Just a grand. And that's >> What frustrates the judge most is the complete lack of accountability. The grandmother reveals she lost the family home after becoming a widow. While her son refused to let her and the child move into his spacious house because it would be inconvenient. At that moment, the courtroom atmosphere completely shifts >> in that wind. You know how much?
>> Everybody does not receive just a grand.
>> Yeah.
>> Everybody don't receive it.
>> Well, that's why I paid for the 150 that You came here to waste my time. What is it? What is the amount? So, you pay yourself $48,000. You pay yourself that, right?
>> Uh, no. It's it's from from, you know, from jobs. I I I try and >> How much is your rent, Mr. Compost? Or or do you pay a mortgage?
>> No. Rent a month is about a grand 500.
>> Okay. So, $1,500 in rent. What's your other expenses look like? owner. He doesn't rent. We were They did a big huge housewarming party. That is his home. Him and her bought that home. It's not a ranch.
>> So, you really are wasting my time.
>> I I I am renting it. I'm not sure where she she's getting that from.
>> They had a huge uh And you know, as families talk and we're going to try to pay off the house early and we're going to try to even upgrade, but they didn't stay together.
>> So, wait a minute. You closed on this house?
>> Oh, yeah. I I may have fogged up the details a little bit as as you know it was a heartbreaking you know I don't want to go into it as much >> over there you have you have a deed >> a a deed >> I yes I do but it's just >> okay so you own the miss compost >> you own the home do not come in here and waste my time >> the details have just been >> you've been getting over on your mother that's not going to work on me okay I was not born yesterday >> okay >> all All right. So, let me tell you what we're going to do. We are going to have the child support that you received that $1,000. We're going to send it over to your mom.
>> Your honor, if there's any way we can >> Yeah. Hold on. Hold on. I'm not finished. And I know you want to hear this.
>> That's just mom's portion. You're going to pay two. So, mom is going to be getting what? About Let's see. You said 40. Now, I'mma take your word for it.
I'm going to take your word for it at that $48,000.
All right. And you said $150 in health insurance.
>> Yes.
>> All right. So, your gross comes out to $3,900.
That brings your net to $3,28028.
And how many children do you have?
>> Just the one.
>> Just how many?
>> Just the one. Just the one child.
>> Yes, just Julie.
>> All right.
All right. So, 20% of that brings your child support to $656.
And that's giving you credit for the health insurance. So, >> as the financial truth starts unraveling, the father's story begins falling apart. The judge carefully recalculates his income, exposes the contradictions in his testimony, and redirects the child support money straight to the grandmother. while ordering additional monthly payments. On top of it, >> you have to continue paying that health insurance of $150.
Child support to grandma is going to be $656 as well as the reallocation of the $1,000 that you receive from mom going to grandmother. So, grandmother's amount in child support monthly is $1,656, which $656 belongs to you. You understand that?
>> Yes. Okay. Grandma, did you understand what I said?
>> I did understand. Uh he's the only one thinking that that I'm a fool. Now I understand why he didn't tell me about that uh medical coverage cuz he would have known that I knew enough. I retired from the state. He knew that I would have known enough. Well, if you've got insurance, it's the card's probably got the mom's name under whoever it comes under for Julian. And I would have put two and two together and figured there's some child support following that too. But I just didn't think that he would sink that low. But I again didn't think he'd be taking Julian to Walmart after he goes mall shopping either. And what's that about real quick?
>> Well, he's 6 years old. If if I get him some 11s, he's going to mess him up in in a day or so.
>> Okay, I said real quick. That was too long. That that doesn't even make sense what you just said. You You can wear 11s, but your son can't.
>> Shame on you. Do better, Mr. compost.
>> You know, I just noticed I asked him for a confirmation necklace because Julian uh is fixing to make his first holy communion and he's got that big huge thing. I I bet you it's not even fake that necklace. And he said, "Oh, I I just can't I can't do it. I can't afford it. I can't, you know, uh and I knew that his mortgage was not $500 cuz I thought, well, then I should move to Plano to the big houses because apparently they're giving them away over there." But with that money that you're saying that we're eligible for, we wouldn't have had to sell the home that me and your dad lived our whole lives in that we raised you in. Had you just done that, I could still be in that home that I chered so much. And you knew you knew that I love that home.
>> Well, if you manage your money right, then maybe you still would have >> Mr. Compost. Shame on you.
>> I'm sorry.
>> Shame on you.
>> I'm sorry. And I and I and I need this for my promoting this this >> I need you to do better. How about that?
That's what I need you to do. I need you to do right by your mother.
>> I'm not here to counsel you or anything like that, but to hear that she had to sell the family home, but that's kind of heartbreaking. That is That is You can only imagine the memories that are gone, right?
>> Yes, your honor.
>> So, I need you to do better. And until then, I need you to keep working so your mom can get this $656. Okay.
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> All right. Is there anything further?
>> No, ma'am.
>> All right. Is there anything further, Mrs. Compost? Okay, if there's nothing further, you all are dismissed.
>> In the final moments, the grandmother delivers one heartbreaking statement after another, revealing how she had to let go of the family home filled with memories because the support never came.
The judge closes the case with a warning that cuts through the entire courtroom.
Being a parent is more than paying bills when convenient. It's showing up before everything falls apart.
>> You all may be seated. All right, Mr. Cliff. Yes, you are.
>> You're back. Except today >> you're the petitioner. Looks like we found mom.
>> Finally found her.
>> Okay. Finally found her. What can I do for you today?
>> Well, your honor, I'm here to get some justice. I think it's time that I get back what I've been giving out.
>> What do you mean by that?
>> Money. I've been given so much money and she hasn't even been here, >> you know. Well, well, before we really get started, are the kids in the car with the dog again today?
>> Kids aren't in the car. The dog got hit, so he's in a doggy wheelchair.
>> Okay.
>> So, >> All right. Well, I'm sorry to hear that about the dog, but the kids are fine.
>> They are. They're with the neighbor.
>> Okay. Good. Good. Just wanted to make sure. So, what's been going on? I mean, it's been a few months since I've seen you, >> right?
>> So, it looks like you were here >> back when you were here. They had a Excuse me.
>> Is she just looking at me crazy or >> I'll make it easier for you. You focus on me, >> folks. Don't f Excuse me. Excuse me.
>> Sorry, judge.
>> Don't be sorry. Just don't do it. This is your first time here today. And if I remember correctly, you filed the lawsuit on him previously and had the audacity not to show up. So, you definitely need to pipe down.
>> Okay. I chose money, though.
>> Okay. Well, you may have. And we're going to get into that and see how much money you probably are going to be paying on child support. But we want to Oh my gosh.
>> You see, you see, God don't like ugly.
>> Oh, >> you know what? You talking about you don't like, >> you know, this happens every now and then when the weather is bad outside.
>> Know the weather is bad outside.
>> You know what?
>> Talk to judge. Don't break none of him.
>> All right, let's dive into this case.
The courtroom doors opened and what looked like a routine hearing instantly felt different. Judge Vonda recognized the father immediately, but this time he wasn't defending himself. He had come back demanding accountability.
>> Okay. What she just said is right. All right. But I'm not agreeing with you [music] in the sense that you know what I mean. Let me tell him to be quiet and talk to me only.
>> I got you.
>> All right, Mr. Cl continue. So, as I was saying, it's been a few months. So, the kids have been with you. Looks like it's been about seven or eight months now.
>> Yes, surely.
>> All right. So, in this seven and 8 months, seven or eight months, has mom been paying?
>> Has you been paying?
>> Well, no, that's not how this works.
That's not how this works.
>> She hasn't been paying.
>> All right.
>> She has not been paying.
>> Has she at least been visiting with the children?
>> She hasn't visited the children, but she visited that man in jail that she ran off with. Oh, the one that was in the the the car that you really couldn't see the cuddl. Oh, yeah. That's right.
That's right.
>> He got arrested not too long after I saw you for the PPP loan. Is that correct?
>> No, >> that's how she got that.
>> Incorrect.
>> That's incorrect. She got what? What's that?
>> You know, from the last time she got the the booty in in the >> What? They they they call it something though.
>> Uh yeah, the BBL. She know. Oh, >> why you telling my business?
>> People need to know.
>> People don't need to know nothing.
That's for the gram. I mean, I wanted to know, but you know, we're not here for that. We're not here for that. I'm not going to be petty. So, >> you are seeking to put mom on child support.
>> I am.
>> All right. And health insurance.
Who's covering? Well, I would assume she's not. Are you covering health insurance? Are they on Medicaid? What's going on? Well, I wasn't at first, but I got a promotion at work.
>> All right. Congratulations.
>> I appreciate that.
>> All right.
>> And maybe a manager at at the McDonald's, so I'm making a little bit more. And I was able to put two of the kids on insurance, but not all of them.
>> Okay.
>> Just can't cover that many. So, >> all right. So, the other ones, what are they doing?
>> Uh, well, my other job kind of covers that as well.
>> Okay. All right. So, at least all of the children are insured.
>> They are.
>> All right. How much is that insurance total for the kids only >> on McDonald's or the other job?
>> No, just in total.
>> Uh, it's about $350.
>> $350. Okay.
>> As the hearing unfolded, a troubling story began to surface. For nearly 8 months, the children had been living with their father while their mother had seemingly disappeared from their daily lives. The judge listened carefully as questions turned into uncomfortable truths.
All right. Is there anything else you want me to know before I move over to her?
>> Uh, I think that's about it, your honor.
Just ready to hold her accountable.
>> Okay, boy.
>> Okay, Miss Daniels.
>> Yes, Judge. I'm sorry.
>> Excuse me. Excuse me, >> Judge. I'm sorry.
>> Are you here to be pretty or are you here to tell me your side of the story as to why you shouldn't pay child support today?
>> A little bit of both, judge. But I'm not interested in whether you're here to be pretty or not. That has nothing to do with my ruling. You understand that right?
>> I do, judge.
>> All right. So, I should be safe for you.
>> Well, let's stick to the facts. I could care less how you look.
>> Okay, judge. Let's get to the facts.
>> Please do. And quickly and quickly without without all the extra.
>> Not Not extra. Not extra at all. The fact is, judge, I had these children for 10 years before I put him on your doorstep. He was barely doing anything.
That's why I petitioned the court, judge.
>> Okay. Well, here's the deal. You petitioned.
>> Yeah.
>> He showed up. You didn't. I dismissed him.
>> Had an opportunity, judge. Had to take it.
>> Okay. And could you do me a favor?
>> Could you if you're going I I don't allow gum chewing, but if you don't have anywhere to put it, I would suggest you >> get that.
>> Yeah.
>> Okay.
>> Now, you see >> what Mr. Cluff, Miss Daniels, continue, please.
>> Well, that's why I petition the court. I do apologize for not showing up, judge, but let me tell you, I came up, you know.
>> Oh, let's talk about this come up. What kind of come up we talking about?
>> Well, judge, I met a man who said he can change my life, judge.
>> All right. [clears throat] So, how financially, you know, did he change this life of yours?
>> Not too much.
>> Oh. Oh, yeah.
>> Mr. Club. Mr. Club.
>> We don't know. Let let's hear her side of the story because I'm pretty sure she's going to say some interesting stuff about finances.
>> Judge Cluff don't know nothing. Listen, understand that I got at least you know I'm saying six figures in the bank.
>> Oh, okay.
>> Had six figures in the bank.
>> You said what?
>> Mr. Cluff again. Excuse me, Miss Daniels. When I speak, both of you be quiet. Mr. Cluff, there will be no more outburst. Okay, I understand you both are frustrated. Emotions [clears throat] are high. Then the tension shifted.
Every attempt to explain the situation seemed to create even more confusion.
Side comments, interruptions, and old history started flooding back into the courtroom. And the judge quickly reminded everyone who controlled the room.
>> But let me get through this hearing, okay? Because if I can't get through it, guess what I'm going to do? I'm going to reset it.
>> And I know neither one of you want to pay for court parking again, right?
>> I don't.
>> You don't want to take off your work, right? Only one of us will be here.
>> Okay. But you want some sort of relief, right?
>> Yes, sir.
>> Okay. So, in order for me to do that, I have to hear the facts. Now, Miss Daniels, again, continue.
>> So, like I said, >> no, let me direct you really quick.
You're getting ready to talk about these six figures you have in the bank.
>> I do.
>> All right. How much money we talking?
>> We talking about, you know, three 400.
You know what I'm saying? The [clears throat] Sir, >> you said no more outbursters.
>> I was cough. I'm sorry.
>> It's true.
>> It's your allergies.
>> Yeah, >> handle that.
>> You need some tissue?
>> No. No, thank you.
>> Okay, Miss Daniels, that's what you have in the bank. How much money are you making annually?
Well, it kind of just depends on the year and how many promotions I get. Um, how many companies want to invest in me.
So, it just depends anywhere between >> when are you going to answer my question, >> judge? That's a it's a difficult question for me because you know sometimes I can have a promotion that's 500 bucks or I can have a promotion that's 50,000 plus.
So, Miss Daniels, you know I don't have a lot of time, right? I have other cases I need to give you. I >> I do understand that.
>> Right. So, you obviously came here to waste my time. I didn't.
>> You did because I asked you a very simple question. On average, >> simple answer.
>> On average, >> on average, >> how much do you make in a year?
>> Judge, I'd like to say about uh maybe about 30 to 100K.
>> Okay. 30 to 100,000.
>> Yeah. So, we just going to take the high end so we can keep this moving because you came here to waste my time and I do not have time to play with you.
>> Oh my gosh.
>> Um, and is this from an employer or are you self-employed? What do we do?
>> Self-employed.
>> I do influence.
>> What do you influence?
>> Now, the focus moved to finances. While the father described long work hours and struggling to provide insurance for five children, the other side painted a very different picture. The judge began noticing that some stories sounded polished but didn't fully match reality.
>> I influenced the world.
>> You clearly aren't influencing you. You said the world.
>> The world.
>> Well, that doesn't include these five children because you don't even go and see them, right?
>> It's just been the last couple months.
>> Well, no. No. Excuse me. Excuse me.
>> Yes, sir.
>> You're influencing everyone but these children that you do not have anything to do with and you do not financially support. You said they were with you.
Excuse me. It's hot.
>> What are we doing here? What are we doing here?
>> It's getting hot.
>> She trying to show you what she had.
>> The BBL. Yeah.
>> I'm not interested in the BBL. Let me tell you what I'm about to do. I'm about to make these numbers go BBL. Okay. So, >> judge, can I can I speak briefly?
>> Briefly. Make it quick.
>> Quickly. Um, in the last few months, it has been a downtrend due to inflation and all that stuff. People aren't paying as much. How much was your BBL?
>> I didn't pay for that. How much was it?
How much was it?
>> I mean, you know, I got more than a BBL.
I had tube sock titties. So, I got the booties and I got the booty. Then I got all that. So, he probably paid 35 40,000.
>> Yeah, he did.
>> Oh, yeah. Let me hurry up and get you out of here with these numbers. You about to pay child support. You have five children total or do you have other children outside of these five?
>> Um, >> that are under the age of 18?
>> No, I don't.
>> Okay. Okay. So, just the five children, right?
>> Yes.
>> All right. So, five children that is going to be at the 40%.
>> And you said health insurance was about $350, right?
>> Yes, sir.
>> All right. So, your child support you're looking at monthly.
So, with your testimony being on the high end of $100,000, that's what I just based your um child support off of. So, I mean, well, I was going to make it higher than that and do it like the $350,000. Then that would make you cap out, but >> I think you should do that.
>> Well, no.
if she I have to accept her testimony is true, but I don't really think that it's going to help her too much because her child support is still going to be pretty hefty. So, I have your Then came the moment that changed everything.
Claims of success, money, and influence suddenly entered the conversation, but the judge wasn't interested in image or appearances. She wanted numbers, facts, and answers that could survive scrutiny.
>> Gross. at $8,333.33.
That brings your net to $6,512.7.
So 6512 times the 40%. That brings your child support amount to $2,64.
>> Is that a week younger or >> How often are you paid? Are you pay by the day? You pay by the month, how are you paid?
>> Judge, it just depends. Um I would >> She just answered my question. That's a monthly amount.
>> How she's paid, that's it'll just break down. But the amount is $2,64 plus >> I can give you that.
>> Plus, you need it.
>> $350 reimbursement for the children. So that brings your monthly rate to $2,954.
>> I got it. Yeah, the kids stay with him now. The kids will continue to live with him because that's who they live with.
And obviously you care more about a BBL than them. We don't know when she's going to run off again with the next guy.
>> No next guy. I'm good.
>> It'll be a Caprice this time.
>> I'm good.
>> Oh, okay. So, we're good with the numbers then. Is there anything further?
>> All right. Is there anything further that you want me to know that's related to this >> judge? um briefly about uh visitation.
How does that work?
>> The kids are going to stay with him and you guys are going to work that out at a different >> along very well as you can see.
>> Well, obviously, but I mean they need to stay with him and probably see you on weekends if you're so busy. That's my busiest time. Judge, I can't do weekends. Maybe Monday to Tuesday.
>> Well, they go to school, >> right? And I'm at work. Are you going to get him to school? No, >> I can't.
>> You can't get him to school.
>> She don't have a car.
>> What?
>> You don't have a car?
>> She make all that money.
>> Oh, you you a lot.
>> But I ain't got no car.
>> You better go see the rose outside.
[laughter] >> What kind of roses? I love roses. What color?
>> I just said rose like uh rose gold co.
>> Oh, okay. Okay. Cuz I know we weren't talking about that other one, but anyh who, that's neither here nor there. Is there anything further, Mr. Cliff?
>> I think that's all, your honor.
>> All right. Well, if there's nothing further, you all are dismissed. Thank you.
>> Thank you, J.
>> You're welcome.
>> The decision arrived with force. The judge calculated support using the income presented and raised the financial responsibility to reflect the reality of raising five children. In the end, the message inside that courtroom was unmistakable. Parenthood doesn't pause when life gets convenient.
Responsibilities remain whether you're ready or not.
>> You all may be seated.
Mr. Paul. Yes, ma'am.
>> How are you?
>> I'm good. How are you?
>> Good. Good to see you back.
>> Good to see you.
>> Okay. All right. And the last time you were here, we were here for your daughter. You had both her children.
>> Okay. Who is this?
>> This is my youngest daughter, Kayla. And we have her kids now. So, we're trying to uh somehow get some more income because she's not giving us really nothing. And we just >> You all are just that great of grandparents. Your children want to leave their children with you.
>> Well, they did such a good job raising me.
>> Excuse me. Excuse me. Excuse me. Miss Paul, give me an opportunity to speak with your parents and I promise you I would come over here to you. Okay.
>> Got it.
>> Okay.
>> I think my mama always been jealous of me, honestly. But that's a whole another story for a whole another day.
>> Sounds like y'all need therapy court instead of support.
>> Jealous of her.
>> That's what she said.
Hm. Is that why she You went missing for a year and a half?
>> Missing?
>> I was taking care of business >> at 16.
>> Yes.
>> What kind of business at 16?
>> You know what? Let's Let's finish this business.
>> Thank you, Judge.
>> With the child in my business.
>> Well, you started it, but I'm [clears throat] going to continue it from here. Okay.
>> All right.
>> I believe have any business since we have her child >> living with us. How old is this child?
>> What is he? 6 months now.
>> Six months. Yeah.
>> Oh, it's a newborn.
>> Yeah.
>> Yes.
>> You left your newborn baby with your parents >> every day.
>> Well, I mean, people make mistakes and so he's a mistake.
>> Wow.
>> You knew what you were doing.
>> If I could take it back, I would, honestly. But if you can take what back >> really >> everything that's happened over the last year and a half.
So, you were pregnant within the last year and a half. Are you speaking about taking that back?
>> All right, let's dive into this case. A courtroom reunion takes an unexpected turn as Judge Vonda recognizes a family she has seen before. But this time, the story is darker. The grandparents aren't here over one child. They're back carrying the weight of another crisis.
>> Yes, it was a mistake. People make mistakes all the time.
>> Our grandchild is not a mistake. Okay.
>> I'm going to I'm going to act like you did not just say that.
>> Yes.
>> I'm going to act like you did not just say that.
>> Wow.
>> And we're going to move forward with what's going on today.
>> The reality is is that you have a 6-month-old baby boy who you passed off to your parents.
>> Okay.
>> Mhm.
>> Is that a yes?
>> Yes.
>> Okay. They're here today because they want you to pay child support for your son.
>> Okay. Uh in my defense during they like set up the baby shower and all of that.
I never signed up any of that. And at the baby shower, they let me know that if it was anything that I need, they would >> they would be there and I need them right now. So, they should be here.
>> Hold on.
>> Let's let's rewind. Mrs. Paul, give me one minute. Okay. Give me one minute.
Let's rewind something. They threw you a baby shower and told you whatever you needed, they would be there to help, right? Mhm.
>> Not to Is that a Yes, ma'am.
>> Yes, ma'am. I'm sorry.
>> Okay. I'm sorry.
>> They said they would be there to help, not necessarily take parentage away from you for your child. You understand that, right?
>> I understand.
>> They're grandparents. They're not parents.
>> Exactly.
>> Yes.
So, don't you believe you should be financially supporting your baby boy while he's with your parents?
>> Hello.
>> I do. But at the same time, y'all doing it for Christy. Why can't you do it for me?
>> Well, and you think that's right?
>> It had nothing to do with that.
>> I mean, it just it's only fair. So, because they have your sister's children, >> they should take in a new baby.
>> I only had two of my own kids.
>> Well, you going to do whatever you want to do.
>> I I honestly think that it's only fair.
>> How make sense of that?
>> Fair.
>> Mrs. Mrs. Paul, >> I'm trying. I'm actually trying.
>> Hold on one second. Miss Paul, Mrs. call.
>> You are asking some great questions, but they should come from me. Okay.
>> I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
>> Just give me a minute. Just give me a minute. I understand the frustration.
You all are grandparents. I remember correctly. Um, Mr. Paul retired.
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> As the hearing unfolds, a shocking reality surfaces. Their younger daughter left her six-month-old baby in their care and walked away from the responsibility. Then comes a statement that changes the mood in the room completely. And the silence suddenly feels heavier than the arguments.
>> And and you all have inherited a newborn baby. So I can definitely [clears throat] understand the frustration. But just give me a moment to get your daughter's side of the story here. Okay.
>> Okay. Yeah. Because I should be living my best life right now.
>> You say that, baby.
>> Traveling, seeing the world.
>> I do not necessarily disagree with that.
>> They always act broke. Crazy.
>> Whether they act like they have money or broke. The point is is that they have raised you and your sister. They should not be raising you and your sister's children.
>> Yes, ma'am. I hear that. But I'm actually trying. I've graduated high school. Congratulations. Residency school. Congratulations. Christie, on the other hand, >> we're not talking about her.
Excuse me. We're not talking about Christie. We're here to talk about you.
Let's not put any blame or anything on her. First of all, she's not here to defend herself, >> right? Secondly, we're talking about a newborn baby here that belongs to you.
>> So, >> congratulations for graduating high school, being in school >> a year later, >> but you're a parent now.
>> I'm there.
>> You're a parent now.
>> And that's where I come in to make sure that you financially take care of this child, especially since the child doesn't live with you.
>> Exactly.
>> And hasn't lived. She only kept him for a week.
>> A week? Your honor.
>> Miss Paul, is that true?
>> Well, I had to get back to school.
>> So, the answer is yes.
>> I'm out here trying to save lives. I mean, yes. But, >> but you're not trying to save your own baby's life.
>> Exactly.
>> What make that make sense?
>> When I have the time, I see him >> when time you came and see.
>> I was just there last week.
>> After 5 minutes.
>> That's besides the point. I I will make time if I need to. This is their first time bringing up the time situation to me. So when it becomes a problem and they let me know, then I will make time.
>> Okay. But it's your baby. This is a baby. A 6-month-old needs a lot more time, attention.
>> Exactly.
>> I don't have that diaper change.
>> I gave him Well, I Well, you didn't give him. You left. Well, that's why he's with you all because you all have time.
We don't have time.
>> You're retired. You But you have nothing but time. We want to travel >> and live.
>> Well, take him with y'all.
>> Miss Paul. Miss Paul.
>> Miss Paul.
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> The judge starts connecting the pieces.
The daughter insists she's trying, points to school and future plans, and claims life simply got complicated. But in this courtroom, explanations only go so far when a newborn child is involved.
>> Your parents came in here not to waste my time.
>> Thank you.
>> You obviously with everything you're saying is wasting my time because it's making zero sense.
Zero. Do you know how many parents have gone to school?
>> Excuse me, I'm talking to you. Address me.
>> I'm sorry. Yes. Do you know how many parents have gone to school and have raised minor children? It happens every day.
>> Every single day. So, you're not doing anything that's special, but since you're choosing this route, then your parents have to do what they have to do and make sure that you're at least financially supporting these children. Now, how much is it that you're making?
>> I make about 48,000.
Here they go.
>> They didn't even know you were making this kind of money for >> I mean >> I mean answer the question. It's a yes or a no.
>> No.
>> You didn't tell your parents you're making this kind of money.
>> I didn't feel like I had to.
>> Why would you feel like that?
>> Because it's my name that's on the check and not >> You know what? Let me let me let me move over to your parents for one second.
>> This little selfish little girl of ours.
Oh my lord.
>> What is this about? Do what type of relationship do you all have?
>> Well, we thought we thought it was pretty good, but evidently it's worse off than I thought. I mean, we get we we raised her to be a better person, but evidently she went off track somehow. But >> probably that year she went astray that year and a half.
>> Yeah.
>> Okay.
>> She went astray for a year and a half when she was 16.
>> What I want to know is who's the father?
I mean, what is the father doing? I mean, >> you know, that is a good question, Mr. Paul. Where is this >> child's father?
>> Do you even in Hawaii with his wife or something?
>> Oh, I mean, >> he's married.
>> I said it was a mistake.
>> I said it was a mistake.
>> Oh, >> okay. Now it's making a mistake.
>> Call what you did was a mistake, but the baby is not a mistake.
>> Exactly.
>> Okay. the only well the mistake boy in the family. So kind of all sound like a mistake to me.
>> Okay. Well, you know what? I'm not going to mistake these child support numbers once I give them to you. Okay. Now, you said you make about >> The deeper the judge digs, the more the story begins to crack. Visits became rare. Responsibility became someone else's burden. And when finances entered the conversation, another surprise landed. She had been earning far more than her parents even knew. $48,000 a year. Is that correct?
>> Yes, ma'am. All right. So, that brings your gross to $4,000, making your net $3,3568.
Do you have any other children?
>> No.
>> Okay.
>> I don't know.
>> Don't.
>> Mr. Paul, what was that?
>> Trust me, I don't. And I don't know.
>> She may have some more that we don't know about. So, >> Okay. Well, hopefully if that's the case, you all do not have to take those kids in either.
>> Thank you, Goa. [laughter] >> Huh, Miss Paul. I mean, that was This is ridiculous.
You left that baby with your parents, do not provide any financial support, and then have the audacity not even to tell your parents how much money you're making. That's just wrong.
>> I didn't think that I had to tell them how much money comes into >> No, my No, ma'am. No, ma'am. Really?
>> You're wrong. And I'm not going to sit up here and play like you're not. I'm telling you to your face. You're wrong.
So net is $3,3568.
Who can never mind. How much is health insurance for this baby?
>> What?
>> It's like $250.
>> Yeah.
>> For the baby alone? Yes.
>> Okay. All right.
>> All right. So, we're also going to make you reimburse health insurance of $250.
That bring Oh, did you not hear me? You want me to say it a little louder? It's $250 for a health insurance reimbursement.
>> Okay. Plus your child support obligation of $671.
>> Yes.
>> That brings monthly child support to $921.
>> Okay. Well, if I got to pay that, I'm not coming around like >> And you know what? And you know what? I I missed something. I missed something because your parents Your parents asked for back pay.
>> Hello.
>> Back.
>> They asked for back pay since the baby has been living with them. That comes out to $5,526 and I'm going to have you reimburse that at $100 a month. So that $921 plus an additional $100 comes out to $1,021 that you're going to be paying your parents every month.
>> Thank you, your honor.
>> Even though I was I was coming to visit him and stuff like >> even though you were coming to visit, you just said something key. You said visit. You're the parent. They should be visiting.
>> Now the atmosphere shifts. Numbers replace excuses. Income is calculated.
Expenses are reviewed. and every missing contribution starts adding up. The judge makes one thing clear. Parenthood doesn't pause just because life gets inconvenient.
>> Not the other way around. They've raised you and your sister. It's not their responsibility to raise your child. So since they have chosen to take on that responsibility, you're going to be responsible for the financial side. Is there anything further?
No ma'am. Okay. Is there anything further, Mr. and Mrs. Harold? I mean, I'm sorry, Mr. and Mrs. Paul. I called you by your first name, Mr. Paul.
>> That's okay. That's okay. Anything else, baby?
>> Well, let's take what we can get because anything else?
>> Okay. No, I think >> Okay. Excuse me, ma'am.
>> Yes, I'm sorry. Excuse when you get done.
>> Yes, ma'am. Was there something else you needed to let me?
>> Okay. I heard you mumble a little bit. I didn't know if you had something else to say.
>> I had something in my throat. Oh, okay.
>> I bet you did, >> Mrs. Paul. Mr. Paul, that's inappropriate. Mrs. Paul, >> I'm sorry. I'm sorry.
>> We just need to make sure we need to um set up um visit visitation schedule cuz she does need to take care of them >> when we travel.
>> Well, here's the deal. Legally, you can't force her to do that. Okay? The only thing you all can do is, you know, make sure you maintain your custody, right? And she can see the baby. But that's going to depend on what she wants to do. If she doesn't want to visit the child, I can't make her do that. But I can make her pay.
>> Well, we'll rather take something for instead of nothing.
>> Okay. Well, if there's nothing further, you all are dismissed.
>> Thank you.
>> You're welcome.
>> Then the decision comes down firmly.
Child support rises, back payments are added, and accountability finally reaches the center of the room. In the end, the message is simple. Grandparents can step in with love, but responsibility always finds its way back to the parent.
>> You all may be seated.
Okay. Miss Miller, is it Miss or Mrs.?
>> Mrs. Mrs. Miller, you brought this case before the court. What is going on?
>> Uh, this is my >> teacher daughter-in-law.
>> Baby mama. Okay.
>> Tracy. Uh, so Tracy leaves the kids with me and didn't come back to check on the kids. Haven't done anything. Just dropped them off and took off and expects me to take care of the children with no money. She doesn't drop food off. She didn't leave any clothes. She didn't do anything. Tracy says she works all the time. That's what she tells me.
That's where she is. So, she hasn't done anything with the kids. And they're small kids. They're three and four. I'M TRYING TO DEAL WITH A THREE AND FOURYEAR-OLD WHILE SHE runs around and does whatever Tracy decides she wants to do.
>> Okay. Is her name Tracy? [gasps] >> Yes. Tracy. Tracy, I guess, is what it is.
>> It's Tracy Judge.
>> It's not that hard. It's just Tracy.
>> Oh, okay.
>> So special. She's very special.
>> According to your son, I am.
>> Okay. Um, >> you just last name. My name is Tracy Smith. Judge >> Smith. Okay.
>> Yes. And I'm prepared. I watch your court hearings on Zoom and the other courts. Are >> you really kissing up?
>> Excuse me. Excuse me. There is nothing wrong with watching hearings on Zoom.
That's not kissing up.
>> It just sounds like a kiss up to me.
>> No, that would be Tracy.
>> That would be her.
>> Okay. Okay. Mrs. Miller, we are going to be nice and respectful. I apologize.
>> It's not kissing up if she is watching Court on Zoom. That's why we s we live stream. So, you can watch it and a lot of people watch it to get prepared. I see you have your notes there. I see that she has notes there. That's okay.
>> Yeah, it is okay. But I would watch it if I wasn't watching kids and kids shows, but that's cuz I got kids. But >> I don't know why she's so mean to me.
>> Go to go to Hold on, Miss Smith. I'll get over to you in just a moment. I'll get over to you in just a moment. Okay. Now, >> all right, let's dive into this case because what looked like a simple child support dispute quickly turned into a family collision no one saw coming.
Judge Vonda stepped into a courtroom where frustration, resentment, and buried tension were already boiling over. A grandmother made a serious accusation claiming two small children had been left in her care while their mother disappeared into a completely different life.
>> Ms. Miller. Mrs. Miller.
>> Yes.
>> You said she dropped the kids off and go do How do you know the things that she do?
>> She claims she's working, >> but she claims she has no money. I'm trying to figure out how that works. How do you work but have no money for your children? I mean, I'm confused because I don't understand that. How long have the children been with you?
>> 6 months.
>> 6 months. And who dropped them off to you?
>> She did.
>> Okay.
>> Trace did.
[snorts] >> I'm I'm assuming the two of you don't get along.
>> She's not my favorite person. No.
>> Oh, okay.
>> She's really not. She's really not.
>> I mean, well, why is that? Just >> Just cuz she lies. She's not taking care of her children. She tricks my son into having children with her.
>> I did not trick your son into my bed.
And I didn't trick your son into my bed.
He got there voluntarily. That's what you offered >> and very happily asked.
>> That's what I offered. So he got in the bed.
>> Okay. So how do you know their relationship?
>> My son tells me things, >> right? You only get, hear me out. You're only getting information from your son.
And I'm not saying that your son is not being truthful, but that's just one side of it. It's always another side.
>> I see stuff. And it it seems like you're very passionate about your grandchildren. Yes, I am.
>> So, you should at least at least pretend to get along with her mother. I mean, she did drop the kids off to you, so she must trust you, right?
>> I don't say anything bad about her.
>> Wait a minute. Wait a minute. She did trust you enough to drop the children off to you, right?
>> Or Yes. Or she had no one else.
>> But, >> okay. But even still, with having no one else, she could have put the kids with somebody that she really didn't know.
>> She grandchildren. She was >> That's my point. She trusted you enough to bring them to you.
>> Good point. Good point. Point.
>> Okay. Point.
>> Now, isn't it fair to say?
>> Part of my son's idea.
>> Your part of your son's idea to do what?
>> Drop the children off to me. She probably didn't think about it.
>> Okay. Is that a bad thing?
>> No, it's a good thing. I'm just saying she probably didn't contribute to that.
It was probably his decision.
>> Yeah.
>> Okay. I'm not following.
>> She probably would have just left them with anybody. I object. I object.
>> What you objecting for? You're attorney.
Are you objecting? [laughter] She has the right to object. Both of you can object. You represent yourself.
>> Okay, that's good to know. Okay, now I'm listening.
>> Now, what is your objection?
>> That's not true.
>> Okay. What is your legal objection?
>> That's not true.
>> All right. So, that's not a legal objection.
>> Not an attorney. So, >> the story sounded harsh at first. 6 months, two young kids, and claims that support never came. To her, this wasn't temporary help anymore. It felt like abandonment. But almost immediately, cracks started appearing in the story.
The emotions were loud, but the timeline didn't seem to fit together. It >> It doesn't matter. She watches court on Zoom, so she is learning how to represent herself.
>> Let's not knock anyone for trying to represent themselves. That's not a legal objection, unfortunately. So, I'm going to allow her to keep speaking. Okay.
>> Okay.
>> Okay. Now, Mrs. Miller, is there anything else you want me to know? Well, before I go there, let me ask you a question. Did your son Did you all communicate at all about why the children were being dropped off to you?
>> Uh, my son is in the military.
>> Okay.
>> So, she Tracy should be taking care of the children.
>> Okay.
>> But she got this new career that she has to worry about. So, there >> that's a good thing, right?
>> If if it'll keep you away from your children. No. No.
>> Okay.
>> No. And you said 6 months they've been with you.
>> Mhm. 6 months.
>> Was there a discussion about it being a temporary thing or was it just permanent?
>> Temporary.
>> You told me it was going to be temporary.
>> I told your son it was going to be temporary.
>> You didn't tell me it was going to be temporary when you dropped him off.
>> Okay. So, I I see kind of what's going on here. Sounds like a lot of miscommunication. You're communicating with your son directly about the things that she and your son discussed, but your son is not really relaying it to you as though he spoke to her about it.
That's what it sounds like.
>> That's what it sounds like. When my son wouldn't lie, he wouldn't make up things.
>> He wouldn't lie, but you wouldn't. Okay.
Wait a minute. So, you said your son wouldn't lie. Did he tell you?
>> Did she just call me a liar, though? DID YOU JUST CALL me a liar? Girl, >> I don't think she said that. I didn't hear that word.
>> It not have been that word.
>> Yeah, I don't think she said that word.
If we're rewriting reality, >> Miss Smith, Miss Smith, we will get to you shortly.
>> Yes, your honor. I'm sorry.
>> Don't be sorry. Just don't do it. Okay.
>> I should know that by now. I watch your court all the time. I won't do it again.
>> Watch them YouTubes a little closer next time.
>> Okay. That was not nice.
>> I'm sorry. You still be nice, >> Miss Millie. I apologize.
>> You do not have to act like that. Okay.
>> I don't. Now, when we first started talking, you said she was your son's baby mama, and I believe she said they were engaged or fianc or something.
>> N a >> So, isn't it is it Couldn't it be that your son doesn't tell you everything?
>> She got a ring, huh?
>> I mean, I thought I heard her say that.
>> So, you got money to buy a ring, but you ain't got money for the kids.
>> Your son bought >> But you took the ring. You should have said, "No, give my mama the money for Give your mother the money for the babies." As the judge listened closely, another layer surfaced. The son, the children's father, was overseas on military deployment, far away from the chaos unfolding back home. And suddenly, the courtroom shifted. This wasn't only about money anymore. It was becoming a case about communication falling apart.
>> Is it my ring on so you Mrs. Miller?
Mrs. Miller.
>> Flash it again, girl.
>> Mrs. Miller, it's a beautiful ring. Now, is there anything else you want me to cost >> a little money too, daughter?
>> And it sounds like that's a conversation you need to have with your son on another day. Is there anything else you want me to know?
>> He paid for that, though.
>> Is there anything else you want me to know?
>> Your honor, that's it.
>> Okay. So, I can move over to Miss Smith then. Yes, your honor.
>> All right. Now, Miss Smith, it is your turn. What do you want me to know?
>> Your honor, she absolutely has not had my kids consistently for 6 months.
>> Okay. How long have Miss Miller?
>> Oh, I'm sorry. I was just making notes on what she was saying. I apologize.
>> Yes, you can quietly make notes. Yes.
Quietly.
>> Yes, ma'am. Okay.
>> So, her son and I are very much so in love and he just recently joined the military.
[cough] >> I'm sorry. I should have had some water before I sit down. I apologize. I apologize.
>> He recently joined the military and he's deployed right now. He's probably going to flip out when he finds out what his mom has done by bringing me to child support court. So, >> so he doesn't know that.
>> No, he doesn't know yet. Well, he doesn't know. I haven't been able to talk to him yet cuz he's on deployment.
So, unless she told him, my understanding is he doesn't know. I just got these papers handed to me like maybe two weeks ago, a week and a half ago >> to be here.
>> Yes. And I've emailed him, but I haven't got a response yet. He has limited access right now while he's overseas.
>> Okay. So, it it is indeed a fact that you dropped the children off to grandmother 6 months ago.
>> Yes. So the court knows I am I'm a influencer and I hate saying that cuz I'm still growing right now influencer growing stage and so I do like travel blogs and things like that which require me to travel >> object questions what which one can I do the question what she said what's an influencer what what is >> so what is your legal what is your legal objection >> the legal objection is that she's lying >> that's not a legal objection >> and finding information. False information. What's an influencer?
What's what's that she says she does?
>> Okay, that's >> that's false.
>> All right, that's not a legal objection either. So, I'm going to allow her to finish because then maybe you can hear what an influence is.
>> Okay. All right.
>> That works.
>> All right. Continue.
>> So, I I don't get paid a lot. Um mostly they just kind of cop the expenses and stuff while I'm growing my channel.
Before he deployed, he deployed about 7 months ago. Then Tracy finally spoke calmly. She revealed something no one expected she wasn't gone forever. She was building a future as a travel content creator while following a plan she believed everyone had already agreed to. According to her, the children weren't abandoned. They were staying with family during short trips while she chased an opportunity.
>> And he did not want me to give up my growing career. I'm starting to get a lot of traction on social media. And so he he told me that he talked to his mom and agreed that she would take care of the kids while I have to travel. And I don't travel for like a month at a time.
I'm gone maybe 5 days to 7 days and I'm back 2 or three. And I get my kids and then if I have to travel again, I leave them with her. You know, I I don't have my mom. And so when I got in this relationship, I wanted to have a good relationship with her. And I don't know why she's so mean to me. Like I have beautiful children with her son and I'm a good person.
>> And so if she doesn't want to take care of him or help me anymore, I can give up being a influencer kids.
>> And an in excuse me, influencing. When you say influencing, you're talking about social media content creator, that kind of stuff.
>> Yes. And my specific niche is uh travel videos. And you know, they're young right now. I hope when they're older, um you know, my fiance and I plan to integrate the kids and do like family trips and show how to travel on a budget. Like we have a plan marked out for it, but his deployment right now, you know, he's going to get out of the military when his his term is up this time. He's not reinlisting.
>> Okay.
>> So, if she's not willing to help us, like, you know, my fiance said, I'll take them back, but she doesn't talk to me. And I I send them with food and groceries and when I have to travel it's not like you know Christmas treats that >> not to mention my fiance when he's here we live together. We're happily together. My fiance pays she's on our phone plan. She my hus my fiance pays like some of the bills at the house and stuff. So while it's not maybe coming from me directly it's from our household.
>> Okay. We're getting married when he gets permission for leave. We're going to be married. Whether she likes it or not, whether she's there or not, we're going to be married. Okay, I see what's going on here. It sounds like a lot of miscommunication going on. Not only between she and her fiance, well, not necessarily between the two of them. I believe that based on what she just said, they knew what they were doing.
But your son is not communicating with you, and the two of you aren't communicating with each other. But you honor, she says that he was sitting the doing the paying part of the bills. He's always paid part of my bills. That was before the children came. So for her to say he's paying the bills for the children, he's not paying those bills for the children. He's always taking care of his mother.
>> I don't think that's what she meant by that. The judge started connecting the missing pieces. Temporary care, deployment, travel schedules, a fiance who supposedly approved everything before leaving. And with every answer, it felt less like betrayal and more like people speaking through one person instead of speaking to each other.
>> I don't believe that's what she meant.
And in order for >> you just don't know, Tracy. You just don't. You just >> Well, it sounds like you don't know a whole lot about their relationship. You didn't even know that this is about to be your daughter-in-law.
>> Hi, Mom. [laughter] >> Girl, don't say that to me no more. I had a nice girl picked out for him to live down the street. Kesha was sweet.
He went to school with her. He could have had a nice girl and stuff. And then he went and got this girl right here cuz she she did things with him that little key shea wasn't going to do. But but but that's neither here nor there. I don't want to slander her. But I do want to say that Miss Miss influencer should be able to pay for her children that live with me. She brings like rice krispie treats and cookies and that ain't no food. They need noodles. I know how to cook noodles.
>> I have one question. I have one question. When she dropped these children off to you, did she say that she was never coming back to pick them up? Or or or did she say that this was a temporary situation?
>> She said, "I am pursuing a career that requires me to travel a little."
>> Okay.
>> So, I need you to watch the children while I do that. Well, of course, they're my son's children. Of course, I'm going to watch the children. But no, she did not say that it was going to be this long and she was going to be gone.
>> Did your son tell you it was temporary?
>> Well, I don't like to bother him, you know, with some of this stuff.
>> That wasn't my question. Did your son tell you that this was a temporary situation while they were, you know, trying to sort things out with military and >> Yeah. He said while she started her little career.
>> Okay. So, >> that that you need to watch, you know, I was going to have the kids. So you agreed and I believe there is you 6 months.
>> Do y'all have anything you want me to look at? Um because I see that you have documents over here. I see that you have looks like you just got my notes drawn.
>> I have the email that my husband my almost husband sent to his mom.
>> Could you stop saying that? And you probably you have his email address, don't you? Don't you check his email? So you probably sent that email.
>> But how do you know? Because that's the kind of person she is.
>> Come on, Mrs. Miller. The email states like if she could watch them while I travel and and you haven't heard her deny. I get them when I come back. It's never for longer than 5.
>> Then the courtroom took another turn.
Emails appeared. Notes surfaced. And suddenly written proof entered the picture. The judge saw something.
Critical evidence suggesting this arrangement had been discussed, accepted, and understood from the beginning.
>> Maybe seven days at a time. And if she wants to >> How much money have you given to others?
She talk. See, there's the real her.
There's the real her coming out right now. GO AHEAD. SHE KEPT CRYING. Just keep going like that.
>> Hold on. Hold on. One second. One second. You keep interrupting her. You keep interrupting her cuz she be lying.
>> She did it to you, too. So, I can't just say that you're 100% at fault. You both are doing it.
>> I don't see how y'all are going to be able to work together with these children if you can't even get a word in. Now, in this email, >> see, she interrupted. I mean, it is very clear what the intentions were. It is very clear that this was a temporary situation and you agree to help them.
>> She wrote that email. I agreed. I agreed to keep my grandchildren cuz I didn't want anybody else to help.
>> That's what the email said.
>> I agreed. I did agree. I did agree. I'll take that.
>> Mrs. Miller, I I don't like to tell people what their intentions are.
>> Mhm. But it does not seem like you did anything here today other than to come and waste my time because you should not have filed a child support situation on her. You should not. It's very clear. It is is hold on. It is very clear that this arrangement was for you to help not only her but to help your son as well. And then if it's true what she also said that she hasn't been able to communicate with her husband. He doesn't even know that you did this. I'm sorry. Your son, her fiance, he doesn't even know that you did this. You think he's going to be impressed to know that his mother did that to his fiance?
>> He'll he'll understand.
>> No, that's not funny. That that this is not a joking matter. This is serious. M >> things like this is what makes it hard for families. Child support is hard enough on anybody. But to file it simply because you don't like the other person, that's just mean.
>> Well, also she has money. She's not paying. She doesn't give anything. She running around talking about the job.
>> What is the Wait, wait one second. Wait one second. Miss Smith, what was the agreement, if any, for financial support of these children while your husband was on deployment and you were traveling for work?
>> My fianceé continues to pay some of the bills like her phone bill and I think he pays the internet and gives her money when he's there. Um, >> now the atmosphere changed completely.
What began as a demand for child support started looking like something else entirely. Hurt feelings, old resentment, personal opinions getting mixed into legal arguments. the judge could see a deeper issue hiding behind the paperwork.
>> But always done that.
>> I also drop off groceries for the days when um she does watch them, but I want to let the court know if she wants to completely destroy her relationship with her son and with my children.
>> What happens with me and my son?
>> My children, I will pick them up and they will not be going back to her house. And this is why I Well, I don't want you to do that object to a threat.
Can I object to a threat?
>> Well, she didn't actually threaten you.
She says she going to take your children and that's not a legal objection. I mean, you know, it I would never recommend >> anybody to stop children from seeing the other parts of their family. However, however, >> right, >> you're going to have to play fair.
You're going to have to play fair. If there was, according to this email, there's nothing in here that said any exchange of financial anything for the children from from her to you.
>> And that's why I filed for child support.
>> Just give me a chance. Like, I'm a good person.
>> Yo, that is a good question. Miss Smith, let me ask the question. But I'm going to piggyback off what she said.
>> Why? Just give her a chance.
>> [snorts] >> It sounds like she really loves your son. And it sounds like her son really loves her, too. So, y'all should be working together as a family at this point.
>> That's what I've been trying to do.
>> Especially with him not being here. This is a a really good opportunity for you, the two of you, to get to know each other.
>> But she's never here. She's traveling with that little new job.
>> Call her and you all sit down and have a conversation. Get to know each other.
This is not the place to do it. This is where bitterness, bitterness, bitter feelings, all of those things come into place. This is not the court.
This is not the court. This is not the place to be doing these types of things.
All right? I'm going to deny your request and I'm going to dismiss this case because you do not have a reason to ask for child support. is very clear from this email that you knew what the situation was and you agreed to help them and you're getting financial support from it. It's just not what you're looking for, but that was the agreement to continue paying the bills and everything like that.
>> I won't be dropping them off on Monday.
So, >> you ain't going to have that already there. You probably not coming.
>> No, hold on. Hold on. Yes, you are.
Because y'all are going to do what?
Y'all gonna go have a conversation.
>> Did you hear her? We're gonna have a conversation.
>> Yes. Y'all are going to have a conversation.
>> You're gonna have to play nice in front of the judge.
>> And you are too.
Is there anything further?
>> No, your honor.
>> Okay. Is there anything further?
>> No, your honor. Can Can we like order counseling? Is that an option?
>> Yeah, please.
>> Well, I can't necessarily order counseling because you know [laughter] >> I can't talk to her. Look how >> Here's the deal. Here's the deal. I cannot order that. That is not what we do in child support court. But I would highly recommend and encourage it and it can be done and I have faith in the both of you. If there's nothing further, you all are dismissed. Thank you, Judge.
>> Thank you.
>> The decision landed hard. The judge shut the case down and made one thing clear.
Courtrooms are not places to settle family bitterness. In the end, the message hit harder than the ruling itself. When communication disappears, even family can start feeling like strangers.
You all may be seated.
>> Let's see. Miss Laura.
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> You brought this case before the court.
What's going on?
>> I'm trying to get my baby back.
>> Okay.
>> My uh I had So, I have two babies.
>> Okay.
>> And um I had I just had another baby with my boy. He's not my boyfriend anymore, but he hit my first baby. So Houston got to take him and I want him back cuz I don't I'm not with that boyfriend anymore.
>> So Houston took the baby or you lost the baby?
>> Either way. Houston has the baby and I want it back.
>> No, it's not either way. It's you you lost the baby. So did somebody intervene and take the baby away from you and get the baby?
>> Yes, ma'am. They took the baby and gave him to Houston and I want him back.
>> Okay. And you have a new baby with your ex-boyfriend.
>> Not exboyfriend, ex-boyfriend.
>> So you you guys are no longer together, >> correct, ma'am.
>> How does this new baby >> How old is the new baby?
>> Yes.
>> Like 8 months.
>> And you're done with him after 8 months?
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> Okay.
>> I was done with him like 10 months ago.
The baby's 8 months.
>> Oh, okay. So before the baby was born?
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> Did he come to the birth of the child?
>> No, I didn't want him around.
>> Oh, okay. All right. So, you now want to get custody back from >> Yes, ma'am.
>> from Houston.
>> Who does the baby live with?
>> Me?
>> The baby? No, my baby lives with me.
>> No, not your child. The How many children do you all have between you?
>> Just one.
>> Just one.
>> All right, let's dive into this case.
The courtroom goes silent as Judge Vonda hears a mother make a shocking request.
She says she wants her child back after losing custody years earlier. But within seconds, the story starts unraveling and the details raise more questions than answers.
>> And the child lives with him?
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> And you want the baby back?
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> How long has the baby lived with you?
>> The baby has been living the whole time.
>> Oh, okay. And how old is this child?
>> Five.
>> Five. Oh. And you expect to get child support?
>> Yes, ma'am. And the child has been living with him for almost >> Is it a boy or a girl?
>> Boy.
>> His whole life.
>> Yes, ma'am. Well, when I get my baby back, I want child support. Yeah. He makes way more money than I do. I want my baby back and I want child support.
>> I'm sorry. You have to excuse me because nothing you're saying is making sense right now. You came to court to ask me to give a child back to you that was taken from you.
that's five years old that's pretty much lived with this man the entire time that he has been >> they taken care of >> they took my baby away because my ex-boyfriend is an abuser and I'm not with him anymore so I want my baby back >> right but the child hasn't been living with you the child has been living with him >> yeah because of my ex and I'm not with my ex anymore >> yeah so no it doesn't work like that doesn't work like that he would literally have to have given you the child back and then you come in here and after you've been having the child for some time, then you come in here and say, "Judge, I want this to be changed.
I've been having the child this entire time. I want him to pay child support."
That would be a little bit more reasonable. But what you're asking for today is very unreasonable.
>> Okay. Well, give me my baby back and then I'll come back in a while and ask for child support.
>> Well, I can't give you your baby back because I never took your baby. Okay.
Actually, nobody really took your baby.
You lost your baby for for your own negligence with your ex-boyfriend. That has nothing to do with me. Okay, now fill me in over here. As the judge digs deeper, the timeline becomes impossible to ignore. The child had been living with the father nearly his entire life.
While the mother claimed everything changed once she ended a toxic relationship. But the judge quickly saw that ending the past doesn't automatically erase its consequences.
The baby was placed with you after the boyfriend hit the baby.
>> Yep.
>> And he's been living with you ever since then.
>> Yep.
>> You've been taking care of him.
>> Mhm.
>> You pay for everything for the child.
What does she do?
>> Uh >> I visit.
>> She visits unsupervised.
>> Okay. Congratulations. Financially, what does she do?
>> Uh oh. Financially?
>> Yeah.
>> H nothing.
>> Oh, that's what I figured. Okay. I see what's going on here. Yeah. And I'm not about to play this game with you. You're the one that's going to pay him child support today.
>> What? Yeah, you are.
>> He makes like three times as much money as I do. I have to give him my money.
>> Um, it's for the child. So, yes, you do.
You do. But the good thing is it's based on your income. You'll get credit for the other child that you just your 8-month old. You'll get credit for that child. But yes, you are going to pay him child support. That's just the right thing to do. It's one child between the two of you. Okay. And health insurance, I'm assuming you pay it.
>> Yes.
>> How much is it?
>> 66 a month.
>> $66.
>> I get it through my employer. So, >> Huh?
>> I get it through my employer.
>> Okay. Gotcha. And how much do you make a year?
>> $38,000.
>> $38,000. So, I have [clears throat] your gross coming out to $3,200.
That brings your net to $2,6481, giving you credit for the other child that you have. Your child support obligation comes out to $42369 plus the $66. You're going to reimburse him for health insurance every month. So 66 added to 46369 is $489.69.
>> $48969.
>> Did you need me to repeat it? I'm asking you $4.89. I have to give him almost $500 a month.
>> Yeah, that's how it works. Did you really think that I was going to have him pay you child support?
>> No, I just wanted my baby.
>> Oh, okay. So, your first answer was no.
So, then you understand exactly why you have to pay child support. Is there anything else?
>> No, ma'am.
>> Okay. Is there anything else?
>> Nope.
>> Okay. You all maybe you all are dismissed.
>> Then came the twist. Nobody expected.
Instead of granting her request, the judge shifted the entire direction of the case and made one thing clear.
Responsibility follows the child, not the excuses. By the end, the courtroom delivered a hard reality check that completely changed who would be paying whom.
>> All may be seated. Mr. Paul, you brought this case before the court. What's going on? Well, your honor, my daughter who's living some type of life that I have no idea what it is, she drops her kids off every day and does what she wants to and doesn't leave any money for food or for any kind of things that the kids need. So, I need some help financially cuz she doesn't give me anything. I mean, just me giving my money out of my pocket that I retired with. So, I need some help. Seriously.
Okay. And where did you retire from?
>> From the school district.
>> Okay. How how long were you there?
>> Uh 20 years.
>> Okay. Great. Great. Thank you for your service. And thank you for taking in your daughter's kids because they could be a number of places, but thankfully they're with >> a grandparent.
Ma'am, what do you have to say for yourself? F. First off, let me ask this question. Is what he just said true? I mean, I they they >> It's a yes or a no. Is what he just said. True.
>> Yes, it's true.
>> What's wrong with you?
>> It's nothing wrong with me. It's just stuff I be needing to do and I need somebody to wash the kids, so I take them over there >> every day.
>> Yes, every day. I don't see the issue.
Excuse me. Excuse me. You all will not address each other. You will address me.
Okay. And I definitely understand dad's frustration. And I'm going to ask you, too. Every day you have something to do that requires you to be away from your kids. How many kids are we talking?
>> Two.
>> Two. You left two kids with him. What What do you have to do, ma'am, that's so important every day that you cannot have your own kids? I got to make money. So, >> doing what? What do you do for a living?
Whatever I need to do, honestly. Ma'am, what does that even mean?
>> All right, let's dive into a case that instantly raised eyebrows across the courtroom. Judge Vonda hears a retired grandfather reveal a painful reality.
Every day, his daughter leaves her two children behind and walks away without providing a dollar of support. What began as a family dispute quickly started sounding like a crisis hiding in plain sight.
>> I do, you know, little dabble here, a little dabble there, just different stuff.
>> You know what? You obviously came here to waste [clears throat] my time and I am not about to play with you.
What was the last legitimate job that you had?
>> I was a waitress. Okay. Where? At a club.
>> That what you call it? Waitressing.
>> Yes, it was waitressing. What? What else was I doing?
>> You don't want me to tell you?
>> I want you to tell me.
>> She was strolling the streets like a prostitute.
I mean it's like cuz you never say you until you drop the kids off and then I don't see you for two or three days.
>> M that's what he heard. He don't know if it's true.
>> Yeah.
>> Who told him that the streets?
>> I guess so. The streets had to tell him cuz I >> I hear the streets tell the truth, right?
>> Sometimes the streets talk but sometime the streets be lying and that's what they doing at this time.
>> I don't think they're lying on you now, ma'am. Every day your kids are with your dad. No, ma'am. When you were working at that club, how much money were you bringing home monthly?
>> Between 7 to 8,000 a month.
>> All right.
Okay. And that's all tips.
>> Yes. Okay. All right. So, what I am going to do is base your child support on that $7,000 a month. So, that would bring your yearly salary to $84,000 a year. Yeah, you can shake your head all you want to, but that's exactly what I'm going to do. Ma'am, this is extremely disappointing that you leave your kids every day with your dad and you're not giving him any type of financial support. What are these kids on? You know, they receive any type of government assistance or anything.
>> She gets food stamps every month. I don't see any.
>> You get food stamps? Where are the food stamps going?
>> In my house.
Who lives in your house besides you that need the food? Because your kids over here with your dad. You don't give him any money from those food stamps?
No. You know what? I'm not about to play with you. So, this is where we're going to do. Salary $84,000 a year. That brings your gross to $7,000.
>> Then the pressure shifts toward the mother. and the answers only deepen the mystery. She openly admits the children stay with their grandfather almost every day. Yet, her explanations feel scattered and incomplete. The judge listens carefully as details about late nights, missing responsibilities, and whispers from the streets begin painting a far bigger picture.
>> You're net to $5,58.87, which will make your child support obligation $1,377.
Now, you said that you were receiving Don't look confused. I don't even want to hear.
>> That's too I can't pay that every month.
>> You were not making those You were not making those faces when you were out in those streets. But I don't come in here trying to make Excuse me. Don't come in here trying to make those faces. I am not trying to hear it. I have heard enough.
>> Your honor.
>> And you are in the wrong. Yes, sir.
>> She has a mandate with her, too. So, just in case you didn't know, >> you don't need to tell her who in my house though, daddy. Like, for real.
Okay.
>> I'm just telling the truth. Let me know.
It is what it is.
>> It sound like you're just tattletailing.
Well, sounds like he needs to tell the tail on you. Somebody need to You are ridiculous right now, sir.
>> Yes.
>> She receives food stamps. So, I'm assuming there's some Medicaid or something these kids are getting.
>> Yes, ma'am.
>> Okay. Thank you. So, what I'm going to do is do 9% of that $7,000 for your reimbursement to Medicaid. That comes out to $496.
So, $1,377 plus the $496 reimbursement to Medicaid.
That make your total monthly child support obligation $1,873.
I don't even know men that pay that much money every month. So, why I got to pay that every month? I don't know too many women that just take their kids and go drop them off at their parents house and they have a whole man staying in the house with them.
>> It's my dad. Y'all act like I dropped him off with anybody. These are your kids. Is there anything further, ma'am?
>> No. I guess I need to go make some money in these streets for that. Okay. Well, you know what? That is your business. As long as these streets pay po $1,873 a month in child support. Sir, is there anything further?
>> No, ma'am. Happy Mother's Day to you.
>> Well, if there's nothing further, you all are dismissed.
>> Then comes the turning point that changes everything. The judge calculates the case using the income she admitted earning and delivers a decision that lands with serious weight. $1,873 every month in child support. In the end, the message cuts straight through every excuse. Parenthood isn't a choice you pause when it's inconvenient.
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