Tag Archives: school records

Child Custody, Divorce, General Legal, Visitation

School records, grades and cooperation…

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If you’re a parent you are entitled to your child’s school record, grades and information.

This is true regardless of the type of custody or visitation you have. This is true regardless of whether the other parent gives it to you or not. You are entitled to it by law in Mississippi. MCA 93-5-26

So, how do you get it?

  • Ask the other parent.
  • Ask the teacher.
  • Ask the guidance counselor.
  • Ask the principal.
  • Ask the guardian ad litem.
  • Formally request it in writing.
  • Have your lawyer request it.
  • and if all else fails
  • Issue a Subpoena.

Be nice, be professional, but be assertive.

The few exceptions to this are if your parental rights have been terminated and/or the child has been adopted or if there is a Court Order preventing you access.

Matthew Thompson is a Child custody lawyer in Mississippi and encourages you to be involved in your child’s schooling.

Matthew@bowtielawyer.ms (601)850-8000

Child Custody, Divorce, General Legal, Visitation

Back-to-School time.

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Summer is ending. School bells are ringing…

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With back-to-school comes the end of the summer schedule, loose routines and late bed times. Along with the return to school comes “Meet the teacher,” “Back-to-School Night,” & “Meet the (insert mascot of your school here).”

Regardless of your “Custody” arrangement, both parents are free to attend any and all events. It matters not whose “time” it is. I routinely advise clients that if our children attended school or events together, if I can go, you can go.

Additionally, Mississippi law specifically provides that a parent, even a non-custodial parent, shall have “access to records and information pertaining to a minor child, including but not limited to medical, dental and school records, [and] shall not be denied to a parent because the parent is not the child’s custodial parent if such parent’s parental rights have not been terminated by adoption or by a termination of parental rights proceeding.” MCA 93-5-26

So, parents, go to these events for your child. Meet their teacher, meet the other parents, their classmates and school administrators. Stay plugged in. It will benefit your child.

Matthew Thompson is a Child Custody attorney in Mississippi and encourages you to be an engaged parent.

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Child Custody, General Legal

Noncustodial Parents Have Rights

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Unless your rights have been terminated by a Judicial proceeding, either via Termination and/or Adoption, you have rights.

parent rights

MCA § 93­-5-26 (click) provides that you, as a parent, have rights of access to records and information pertaining to your minor child(ren), including but not limited to medical, dental and school records and these shall NOT be denied to a parent because you are not the custodial parent.

Schools, doctors and dentists offices should take note of the above. Also, as a parent, you should be informed and have a copy of this statute  with you when seeking this information if the other parent is not forthcoming.

Follow the blog: BowTieLawyer Visit the website: Thompson Law Firm  You may also contact Matthew with your family law case, question or concern at 

(601) 850-8000  or Matthew@bowtielawyer.ms