Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, there are different types of custody disputes, e.g., those between parents, those between a parent and a third party, etc...

In any custody dispute, the court looks to the "best interests of the child." That is, after reviewing all of the evidene, the court will order a custody decision that is, in the court's opinion, in the best interests of the child. You, as a third party, could legally file a custody complaint against the mother. It is difficult to estimate the chances of your success, however, without more information. As mentioned above, however, the overriding factor is the best interests of the child.

If this child is being abused then you need to contact Childline at once.

Unlike my learned colleague I don't see how you have standing to sue for custody, as you're not a grandparent or even a relative nor have you acted as the child parent. At least based on what you've said.

Should the abuse of the child prove true then she will be removed from her mother. At that point Children & Youth might allow you to provide foster care. They will run a background check on you among other things. If there are other relatives they might be asked to offer kinship care otherwise C&Y could place the child with you. Though there is no guarantee.

{John}