The first step (yes it’s a baby step) is to increase your companionship time.
Ask for
1. Friday 6 pm to Sunday 9 pm every other weekend
2. One overnight a week.
3. First right of refusal.
4. How much vacation time do you get? Whatever it is ask for more.
If she says NO you can file a motion and let the judge decide. The nice thing about filing a motion is that you can attach a bunch of stuff. Like pictures of you and your daughter having a good time. You can also file supporting documents such as parenting class, CPR class, etc. Your folder will not look so sterile (non emotional) to the judge.
Once you have this in place for a year or two you can try to go back to court and file for shared parenting. You will still need a “change in circumstances”. Some say the passing of time is a “change in circumstances”.
If you are serious below is a web site and number of a person who has been helpful with my custody case.
Steven Carlson, The Custody Coach, CBPI
Child Custody Coach
Orange County, CA
(714) 379-0850
www.childcustodycoach.com
steven.carlson@childcustodycoach.com