My question involves a child custody case from the State of: Florida
My daughter was taken from her mother by CPS about a 16 months ago due to substance abuse issues. After months of going back and forth with paperwork issues I finally got custody of her about 3 weeks ago. I finally get her here and settled in and now I'm about to go back to court to determine if my daughter will return to the mother or stay here with me. I have custody now...but the mother is in compliance with the courts request--to some degree. I have issues with sending her back ( I live in Texas by the way) For instance, the mother only has a part time job and a history of substance abuse issues. I don't think she can afford to keep her unless of course she gets government assistance and Child support from me. Even then she will still struggle. I have never had a criminal history, I have a good job, a house, etc...but I'm afraid I'll lose my daughter. The only issue I have working against me is that I have only seen my daughter about 3 times and she's 10 now. I was in the military and lived overseas for most of her life. I cannot afford a lawyer and I go to court in about two weeks. Any help as to what I can present in court will be appreciated.

