Question: Judge Mathis, five years ago my daughter asked me to take care of my 2 year old grandson until she got back on her feet. He is now 7 years old and she has only visited him twice since I’ve had him, she doesn’t even call and talk to him on birthdays or holidays. She doesn’t send money or anything for him and now she has two other kids ages 3 and 1. The boy’s father walked out of his life when he was born. How do I go about getting legal custody of my precious grandson?

The Judge’s Answer: You can file a petition to obtain legal guardianship over your grandson or you can seek to adopt him. In order to adopt, you must file a petition to adopt and give the child’s natural parents notice of your petition. The Court will order you to complete a background check to determine your criminal history and if you have ever been charged or indicated in the abuse or neglect of a minor child. If the natural parents don’t consent to the adoption or there rights have not been terminated, they can file an opposition to your petition to adopt. In that case, an attorney will be appointed for the child.