[brendal25]

My cousin has 3 children. She has a 3 yr old a 2 yr old and a 6 week old. Her life is so messed up that she just cannot afford to raise them as well as give them the home they deserve. She has already pretty much handed the older 2 over to the grandmother to raise. But she did not give up her rights. Now the new baby is in my care for 4 days at a time and then she goes back to the mom for a day or so and she calls me to pick her up again. She keeps telling me I can keep her or that she will sign the adoption papers. How do I handle this legally without paying for a lawyer or court fees?The baby is a sweetheart and my family absolutely loves her. I think the baby thinks I'm her Mommy and it breaks my heart when I have to give her back for a day. What to do??

[ScottGem]

Go to your local family court or family services agency and ask how to petititon for formal adoption. While its recommended that you use a lawyer, the court can point you to the proper forms.