My sister lost her child a few months ago and my husband and I, who live out of state, went and petitioned for my nephew. My sister still has rights but she has shop lifting charges and child neglect charges on her. She is saying that she will be getting him back but she is doing drugs, pot and coke. Is there a chance that we will be able to adopt him and how long will it be? The father is unknown.

The chance is slim to none that you will be allowed to adopt without the mother's approval. However, there is a strong chance you can get temporary guardianship until the mother straightens herself out. If enough time goes by and she shows no evidence of getting straight your chances for adoption will improve.