Custody after death of parent

[stephan]

Hi my wife and I were separated with her having my daughter the majority of time. She recently passed away and her mother and sister took over care while my daughter finished the school year approximately 3 months. I live about 30 miles away and informed them a couple of weeks ago that I would be taking my daughter to come live with me after the school year. I was just informed by an attorney that his clients have requested custody and authority to make all decisions in regards to my daughter. I feel as though I have been slapped in the face and would like some advice if possible. My daughter is 11 years old and likes living with them and I didnt mind it until they started making important decisions without my knowledge etc.

[aaron]

The grandmother and aunt are represented, and presently have physical custody of the child. They are actively working with an attorney to cement their rights, with the goal of preventing you from taking custody. You should consult a local family law expert (not just an average divorce attorney, but somebody with sound experience in third party custody disputes) about your situation and what steps you should take to defend your rights in the custody proceeding.