Q: How likely is it that my bestfriend could get custody of his daughter, if need be?
My bestfriend left his child's mother 3 months ago, and she's threatening him saying that if he doesn't act right in this next month, her and their daughter won't be a part of his life. He has a stable job as a store manager, spends time with his daughter, isn't abusive or anything, and would work to find a babysitter if need be (they still live together). She occasionally cleans houses, doesn't pay any bills at my best friends house, and doesn't have a car (she uses one under his name that he paid for completely). She's accusing him of being neglectful despite the fact that he watches their daughter from 8:30ish to 12:30 when he leaves for work. I feel like he could keep at least partial custody but he's worried because "Georgia likes giving mothers full custody". I do believe his baby momma is incredibly manipulative and is using their daughter as a bargaining chip to maintain control of his life.
A: Wow. That sounds like a tough position for your friend. If he is taking an active role in his child’s life, it is likely that the court will consider giving him parenting time reflective of his involvement.
Regina Irene Edwards agrees with this answer
A: This is a decision that a judge will make after reviewing all of the facts of the case. There are n umerous factors that will go into deciding custody. If he has never been married to the mother then he needs to make sure he has legitimized the child. Until he does that he won’t have any legal rights to her. He should consult with an attorney who can review the facts of the case in detail and help him with the proper course of action.
Michael D. Birchmore agrees with this answer
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