Custody Question

[JSamuelson]

Okay, I am 27 and my ex fiance is 21. Recently our relationship had a very rough patch because she involved herself in drugs and alcohol. I am terrified for my child's life. When she was sober she was a wonderful parent. While doing such things she leaves our child with her mother between the hours of midnight to 2am while she goes out to bars, etc. She has also left her with her during the day while she has smoked marijuana. I really tried to help her. I told her that the people she was befriending were not a good group and she should not be with them and ruining her life as well as our child's and mine. Eventually my persistence cost me her. It is tough but I am remaining friends for my daughter's sake. I want her well being to be unaffected by this and it kills me to even think of it. I have pictures of her being carried out of the bar by friends and text messages of her admitting to me smoking marijuana. I didnt try to turn her in because I can at least control my daughter's well being and I wanted to help her get through this terrible thing. I also did not turn it in because everyone has put the fear in me that PA is a commonwealth and that I would never win custody of my child. What is it recommended that I do. Anyone's input is greatly appreciated. Thank you for you time.

 

[jharris352]

I lived and practiced law in a Common Wealth for years. No layman understands what a commonwealth is. It has very little impact on you. Is this child HER child also? You kept referring to the child as YOUR child. If she is the mother of the child and you can show alcohol and drug abuse you can get custody. She should be your ex- until she conquers the drugs and alcohol she is not a good candidate for wife or mother.

 

[Duranie]

Your fiancee is young and pretty immature. That is expected of the age. If you can prove mom is unfit and using drugs, then yes you have a chance at custody. Do not assume you have no chance. Was paternity ever established?

 

[JSamuelson]

Yes it is her child also. She seemed fine for the longest time until the drinking and drugs started coming up. She told me that I would never catch her because something relating to pot leaving your system in 4 days and cocaine only taking 2. I do however have the pictures of her being carried out of a bar and texts messages with her admitting to smoking marijuana. The only other thing I have is, we go to the same college and she is on attendance probation.