A child is in the care of a parent who is letting him smoke pot with him and drink ? can I do to get custody?

Question

I need to helkp this child get out of this environment and I dont know what my rights are as a sister and someone who wants to help him.

Answer 1

talk to a lawyer

Answer 2

You say nothing about the age of the child or the precise circumstances. There's a huge difference between a 17-year-old having a beer with Dad and a 10-year-old becoming an alcoholic. That being the case, there's no way to judge from, what you've said whether intevention is justified. It could be beneficial to the child, or it could be harmful. It all depends on the specifics. Be aware that for legal and other reasons, child protection agencies don't always make the decision that's best for the child. Removing a child from its parents is traumatic under any circumstances. They may overreact on the basis of the law.

Answer 3

Many issues are involved with this scenario.  In order to clearly and accurately obtain the information that you need to help you out, please contact an attorney.  

Answer 4

I would start by calling child protective services and report the inappropriate supervision that is occurring in the home.  Definitely talk to a lawyer if you are in a position to.  

Answer 5

Call Child Protective Services immediately, and report everything.  Let them know you are willing to provide a foster home for this child for as long as they need.

You can't get custody unless the parent willing grants you custody, which is unlikely, or unless the court declares the parent unfit and grants custody to you.  So get the law working in the child's best interest.

Answer 6

Any child has rights of his/her own - to be protected, cared for and safe, etc.

There are organisations for childrens' rights & protection - you could approach those.

Focus on the child's rights - then on the agencies which can help.

Best wishes, UK