Hi, I am trying to get custody of my niece, she lives in Alabama and I live in Georgia. Her mother is in an abusive relationship and will not listen to reasoning, my brother stays in Georgia and states that he is willing to sign over his rights to me.

If the mother is abusive to the child (mentally or physically) or the child is in danger, then a report must be filed with your local Child Welfare Association and investigated. I don't see you being awarded custody unless both parents agree to allow you to adopt the child but there is a possibility you could be awarded guardianship (if the circumstances so warrant).