Advice on getting custody started

I am a single parent never married I have a 21 month old daughter. I am not receiving any help from her father. He says b/c he supported us for a year that I owe him? But i have been supporting allie by myself for almost a year now. I mainly want it for custody, b/c he just comes in to pick up allie at his convenience.I would prefer to have a set schedule. I have tried to do this w/ him but he refuses. He wants to see her when he wants in his words. I have no idea how to get started in gaining custody and child support. Like I said I am a single parent so I am limited on funds for this process. Any advice will be greatly appreciated. Thank YOu

Call and make an appointment with your local family court. If you need a lawyer, they can appoint you one...or they can appoint one to your daughter (who will fight for what's in her best interests). You would have to fill out paper work. Being that you're not married, I believe you need to establish paternity...but they will instruct you what to do for free. Try it that way first...they will tell you if you need a lawyer. Good luck!