My daughters' father and I have never been married and we recently separated, he has taken my daughter and plans on taking her out of the state for "the weekend". He has not been much of an active part in her life until now and has threatened several times to get sole custody. He does not understand the importance of a mother. Can he take her out of the state? What are the first steps I can take to file for sole custody

The first step you take is getting a court date to file for custody. The father will then be ordered to pay support and given visitation. He can also file for custody and it will be up to the judge to decide what is best for the child.

In California, the mother automatically receive the custody by giving birth to the baby. If the father hasn't established the paternity, he has no rights. At the same token, he does not have obligations for child supports.

Not enough info given, is father on the birth certificate ? Is there a custody agreement in place ?

If he is on the birth certificate he has as much right to take the child anywhere as you do. If not on the birth certificate, and no custody order in place he has no right at this time to do anything.

You need to file in court for custody, work out vistitaion and more.