How to go about getting custody?

I live in Rhode Island, My grandchilds mother lives in Lousiana. My grandchild lives with
me, but the mom has custody. Can I get custody of my grandchild, with the permission
of the parents? Do we need a laywer? Go to the court? Where do we start? Thanks

I am a law school graduate. What I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.

Yes to all of your questions! That's the easy part. Before you begin, may I suggest the following: Please read all of the Family Law Section at freeadvice.com's homepage and make sure you specifically pay close attention to child support and child custody.

Now, you do need a lawyer to get this process started and make sure everyone is giving consent and your interests and the child's interests are protected.

To do this: please find a family law attorney (especially one who has significant experience in grandparents' rights) in your state of Rhode Island via attorneypages.com or contact the Rhode Island state bar and go from there.

Hope this helps.