Gaining Visitation from a Distance

[Darthvader]

My question involves a child custody case from the State of: Louisiana and missouri

The mother and child live in Missouri. After the baby was born I had to move to Louisiana. Shortly after the state of Missouri had me start paying child support. I was not sure if I could ask for custody in this hearing. I would love to see my daughter mire than anything. Is there any way to get a custody agreement without both parties having to be in the same state for court? If so, I only want a few weeks a year ( due to distance), who is most likely to have to pay for the trips since I pay child support . Thank you

[Mr. Knowitall]

If you have never established visitation rights, you would seek them through the court with jurisdiction over the case - that would be Missouri. It is possible for mom to appear in court and facilitate the entry of such an order without your having to appear for many, and perhaps for any, court hearings; but you know mom and we don't - how helpful will she be?

[Darthvader]

She isn't very nice. She is about to get married and asking me to give up any custodial rights all together. So If I have to start the process I have to do this with missouri. Can I start this online? Do I need a lawer to file the paper work to do it? Would the court be able to get it over with in one hearing since I am so far away and can't travel that much? I am sorry, I know so little about all of this. I appreciate your help Mr Knowitall.