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View Full Version : Child neglect, How do I get guardianship/custody of non-related(blood) child


mrssmith9206
Sep 11, 2012, 08:23 AM
My husband and I accepted to be god parents of a 2.. 5yr old before his birth (mother was a friend) Since his birth she has moved in & out of our home several times. Leaves child(son) for days/weeks at a time with little/no contact.

The last 6 months have been extremely worse. At least one week a month if not several. Doesn't return when she says/calls. What makes it worse is he needs to see a Dr. he has eye issues & needs optomatrist, immunizations, and preschool.

I do have a letter saying when she's not available we have total rights medical, legal, school etc. This letter is only notorized not filed with court. She does not pay us or buy anything for him. We have supplied everything.

Every time she takes him he regresses. Examples potty training, speech, schedules, preschool, numbers, colors etc.

We are very willing to take guardianship/custody of him, but don't want to turn him over to the state for fear of losing him in the system. How do we go about this without calling CPS or such?? HELP PLEASE... THANK YOU!

Ps. We live in Indiana

ScottGem
Sep 11, 2012, 08:29 AM
Consult an attorney. You need a local attorney who knows the mood of the local court. You may be able to get guardianship, but custody will probably need the father's approval.

mrssmith9206
Sep 11, 2012, 12:15 PM
Father has never been in picture. No child support order nothing. I do know he was just release from jail for a 2nd offense n living with his parents. Will this make a substanial difference against me. He does know of the child.

mrssmith9206
Sep 11, 2012, 12:18 PM
father has never been in picture. no child support order nothing. I do know he was just release from jail for a 2nd offense n living with his parents. Will this make a substanial difference against me. He does know of the child.



Live in small community. She is an unknown with history in other courts of non payment of child support for 2 other children that live with their biological father.

ScottGem
Sep 11, 2012, 12:42 PM
If you try for custody or adoption the bio father will have to be involved. If you just go for guardianship he may have to be involved. Depends on the local court.

mrssmith9206
Sep 13, 2012, 09:51 AM
Thank You