The mother of my 5 year old took off last year, and I need to know my rights as a father and how to gain full custody of my daughter. What do I do?

Im not sure, probably go to the courthouse and find someone to talk to.. I really just wanted to say 'congrats' on being a real father! Not a lot of guys would do that.My dad raised me and my brother when our mom ran off.. so I have a lot of respect for men that take responsibility.. good luck!

File for custody. The problem is going to be finding the mother so that you can serve her with the papers. Were you married?