Feeling nervous about custody situation... should I be worried?

I’m a bit anxious about my current situation even though I honestly don’t think a judge would side with my sister and her boyfriend. Quick backstory: my sister had a baby, and both parents left him in the hospital just two days later. Child services got involved, and our aunt received custody of my nephew about eight months later. He was with her the whole time. My sister and her boyfriend just had to clean up their house and take parenting classes, but they refused and avoided child services at every turn. They stopped visiting when he was around 2-3 months old and haven’t seen him since. They’ve also not paid any child support or provided anything for him except for one box of diapers. In November 2023, my aunt was struggling financially and asked if we could take him in. I already have four kids, but we took him immediately. He’s been with us since then, and he calls me and my husband mommy and dada. My sister and her boyfriend didn’t even know we had him until they were served papers to appear in court a year later, but the court date got postponed. They’ve had my number since then but only checked on him twice. Most of the time, they just text to argue or say they’ll willingly give up custody. I don’t get why I have to fight them in court, but my aunt has already signed her part to give me custody. They haven’t seen him in almost three years, and they live in terrible conditions. I know their chances are slim, but I’m still nervous because judges often want to keep families together. Should I be worried?

Honestly, it sounds like you’re doing everything right. The judge will likely consider the child’s best interest, and it seems like he’s thriving with you.

Yeah, the court usually prioritizes the child’s safety and well-being. If the parents haven’t made any effort, that could work in your favor.

Make sure you document everything—like timelines and any communication. It will help your case a lot.

If they haven’t done anything to improve their situation, the court may not be inclined to give them any rights back. You’ve got this!

I agree, and if they try to fight you in court, it could strengthen your case for custody. Just keep pushing for what’s best for your nephew.