Well I have a seven year old daughter. I left her father when she was one year old because he was very abusive, unfaithful, an alcoholic and used durgs. He has done nothing for my daughter he or has tried to make an effort to see her . My daughter has lived with me this whole time. I am currently engaged me and my fiancce have been together since my daughter was two years old. We currently haw a 17 monthe old son. I want to know what is the most quick way to file for custody without it getting ugly.

Sincerely,
Amanda

Does the father want custody

You as the mother already have custody and he will have to go through a court to change this in any way. Even for visitations. Relax and save your money.

I'm not sure it can be done without it getting "ugly." A lot has to do with your ex. If he's been as distant as you suggest then he might be perfectly happy to consent to your having full custody. On the other hand, he could fight you tooth-and-nail. Just file the motion and let the chips fall where they may. Get yourself a good lawyer.

You don't have to do anything, he's the one that has to file for custody. If he does it will get ugly, there's no avoiding that. But if he doesn't want to see her, maybe he'll relinquish his rights. You could try to do that, but he also might fight you just out of spite. I would just leave it alone for now.