Custody & Kidnapping

One thing to consider is that sometimes there may be situations where filing for custody is not necessarily the best option for that person. For example, in some states, if the parents are unmarried and the father’s paternity has not been legally established, a mother may not need to file for custody to have rights that are superior to the father’s (although I cannot specifically speak to STATE’s laws on this). Or sometimes filing for custody when the other parent is not active in the child’s life may spur the other parent to become more active and seek custody as well (again, I cannot speak to your particular situation). In summary, it is often helpful to speak to an attorney before filing to explain one’s specific circumstances, to think through the pros and cons with a lawyer, and to get advice as to whether or not to file. Here is a link for lawyers in STATE, free and paid:LINK and here is some information on custody in STATE in case she does decide to file:
LINK