Can i get custody of a child in danger without a lawyer? -

my cousin is in a bad situation, and i want to get custody of her. i have made the first move with social services, but am i gonna need a lawyer before it is said and done?

Yes you will. Get ready for the battle of your life. Good luck.

in short Yes. It is extremely important to your case to have someone that knows what their doing working on it., like file motions if you mess up one thing it will get dismissed .

Well it really depends. Are the parents fighting you? Would they be willing to give you custody? It would be a good idea to hae help from legal counsel because there are tons of details you may not be considering and because you have an emotional involvement in the case. I have some expirience with taking temporary custody of a niece and nephew but my sister didn t fight me!

Is it possible? Yes. You can proceed en propia persona, aka pro per. But I would not recommend it. The law is highly complex. Motions require a thorough understanding of law and procedure. Considering what is at stake you need a lawyer. I am a lawyer and would never represent myself on anything but a traffic ticket. A lawyer who represents himself has a fool for a client.

Probably not. If your cousin has been removed from her home by the department of child services, they will want to place her with family if at all possible to avoid using foster homes or group homes. The DCS has to run a background check on you, any other people living in your home, and a physical check of your home. They may possibly let her stay with you while this happens. However, the ultimate goal of the DCS is to reunite the family. They will provide necessary services to the entire family. Unless her parents give up their rights permanently, or allow you temporary or permanent guardianship, your cousin will eventually be placed back with her parents. Good Luck!