My question involves a child custody case from the State of: Arkansas
My two sons live with their mother (we were never married) in Arkansas. For the first 4 years after we split I was denied any sort of visitation by her and her family. Child support was set and paternity was established for both, but still no legal rights.
I had the boys here for the second visit after four years when they started complaining about their live in Step-Dad (not married) abusing them. I asked the local CAC to interview the boys to determine the truth. Some of what the children said sounded to be exaggerated and some sounded as if it could be true.
Upon notification from the local Department of Children and Families my ex drove to Florida where I live and picked up the boys from the babysitter while I was at work. I have not heard from them nor will they answer my calls. What are my rights? Can I get any visitation rights without a lawyer? I am worried about my children, and nobody will tell me squat.

