Child Advicate

Hey M.,
Wow, not good. I am so sorry this is happening. I, too, have 2 stepchildren. They are mostly with their mother and we don't have these kinds of probs thank God.
I would definetly call CPS, DSHS and maybe try and find a lawyer that will help you pro bono (sp?). Gosh, I don't really know what you could do being short on money, but there's got to be a way. Start making some phone calls I guess.
I also have an 11 month old! Do you have a boy or girl??
Sorry I can't be of more help to you. Send me a message if you want me to help you brainstorm!

Yes. The rules for tribe members ARE a bit different, but you and your husband CAN go to court. You do not need money because you can represent yourselves. All you need is to file the papers to request custody and provide the judge with all of the evidence from the counselor and from yourselves. You can try to get legal assistance through Snohomish County Legal Services or through the Washington Bar Association, but I strongly, strongly encourage you to fight for those kids. Don't give up on them. Many people involved in custody disputes do it without a lawyer - the judges are SO much easier on people without lawyers so don't be intimidated out of doing what you know is the right thing to do.

You can get the forms you need to fight for custody at: http://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/

Have you talked to the state about what can be done? I think you and your husband should go to DSHS and ask for help. CPS should probably get involved with it too since the child is emotional having problems as well as physical issues. The state may be able to direct you to some organization that help the child.
I hope this helps.

Hello,
I am somewhat in your shoes my husband has a 16 yr old daughter who is with her mom and step dad all the time the situation there is also not all that great and my step daughter is about to flunk out of school. Have you tried talking to the mother about what is going on? I know it is hard especially since there are 2 diffrent parenting styles how ever it may help to communicate your concerns with out having to get the courts involved.