need help getting custody

What is the name of your state? i live in california, and i need help getting custody of my son. i dont know what my rights are as a mother or how to go about doing it. the father and i are not married, and he has threatend to hurt me if i ever took the baby away from him. i am scared to even leave the baby alone with him, in fear that he will take him away. he doesn't work or support the baby in any way. i am still on maternity leave, but i do work full time, and i am the one paying for everything. we have been together for years, but having a child has changed our relationship. he feels that he can treat me badly, just because i have his child. i do not want to raise my son in that kind of environment, which is why i am seeking custody advice. what can i do to get myself out of this situation?

[djohnson]

File for an emergency custody order and get out of the situation. Have prove and documentation to back up everything you say. Ask for supervised visits especially since this is still a young child. You should be able to get that for a while. File for a restraining order to keep him away from you. Protect yourself and your child to the best of your ability.

Thank You djohnson for your advice, I have gotten out of the house safely with the baby. I have an appointment with a lawyer today, so hopefully everything will work out.