My husband does not want to spend time with our daughter

My husband and I have been married for three years and have one child. We live apart because we work in different towns. I live with our child.

My husband has not visited us for the past two years, even though he provides financially.

I have tried to convince him to regularly spend time with our daughter, who clearly misses him, but he has refused. Can he be legally compelled to spend time with her?

Usually, the court only grants orders that it can enforce and a relief that can be quantified.

Therefore, although a child is entitled to a parent’s love and affection, the court cannot force him or her to give that love and affection.

For instance, the court may step in to stop an abusive parent from hurting a child, but they cannot compel that parent to love the child.

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My grandfather died and appointed me in his will as an executor, along with one of my uncles.

However, some of my uncles are dissatisfied with my appointment and will allow me to deal with the property in any way. What do I do?

A testator has testamentary freedom in his will. Therefore, your grandfather had the freedom to choose whoever he wished as the executor of his will as long as they were of age and of sound mind.

As executors, you should apply to the court for grant of probate. If your uncles have a problem with any part of the will, they should move to the court to challenge its validity.

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My father died five years ago. He had a number of properties, but unfortunately, did not leave a will.

A woman he had a relationship with before marrying my mother came forward to claim a share of his property.

She alleges that she had been married to him under customary law. Will she be entitled to his property?

The Law of Succession Act provides for former wives in intestate succession.

That said, this other woman has to prove to the court that she was indeed your father’s wife. If she can provide this proof, she will be entitled to a share of your father’s property.

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My former girlfriend and I had a child who is now three years old. I have accepted to take care of my child, but she has refused to allow me and my family see her or play any role in her life.

Since I cannot get through to her, I am considering going to court if this will make it possible for me to see my daughter.

I need your advice on how to go about this.

You need to be clear about the kind of relief you plan to seek from the court so that you can pinpoint the evidence you will present to the court.

Be clear on whether it is custody of the child you want or just access to the child.

Send your questions to our experts on children’s rights and family law to musyimilaw@gmail.com