Legal Question in Family Law in New Mexico

I have had guardianship of my niece (through power of attorney) for the past 12 months. She is 18 months old. Her mom lives in Texas. I and my niece live in New Mexico. Her mom is diagnosed Bipolar 1, only sporadically takes her meds, is known to wander the streets unaware, and has neglected my niece during the 6 months she did have her. Do I have any rights at all (I think the answer is no) since I've had her for the past year, and what steps can I take to keep my sister from deciding to take her back. She lives with a friend, has no car, has a job and tens of thousands of dollars of debt and isn't safe for my niece. Is there anything I can do? She does have an outstanding CPS investigation in California from the 6 months she did have my niece. She never responded to their calls or questions. Any advice or help is appreciated.


Asked on 2/05/16, 1:37 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
George Chandler Chandler Law of Los Alamos

You seem to be ideally set up for a kinship guardianship. See an attorney, or if you cannot afford one call Pegasus Legal Services for Children (505) 244-1101, or Law Access New Mexico at 1-800-340-9771; if you qualify they can pay an attorney for you.

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Answered on 2/07/16, 6:20 pm


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