I have recently left my boyfriend of 6 years, we have one daughter together. The day that I left he filed for residential and joint custody of the child. He feels that her best interest is to live with him. He also lives with 3 other members of the family and the environment is unstable for her. Unfortunately, She goes to school at the same city he lives in and has lived in that house for three years. On the other hand, I also have a place for her in another city with my parents who are very peaceful and quiet loving people. I have always had her most of the time since she was born, we both work swing shift and work at the same location. In my opinion, I think she should live with me. Should I seek legal advice? Is he most likely going to be granted residential custody of her?

Residential custody? I'm thinking you aren't in the USA. Could you tell us where you are?

But I definitely would recommend getting legal council. I.E. Lawyer or Solicitor.

Where you are at, means a lot. If there is no reason the father can not or will not be a good parent, he has good chance of getting custody. I would ask, for the courts will , why the child is there now, you must have felt it was best ? Or you would have taken the child with you

Legal advice could never hurt. It will make the decisions a little easier and you can be assured that you are within your rights.