There are two systems involved here, the family court and DYFS. You are correct that mom made absolutely no effort to meet DYFS requirements. She was supposed to be free of D&A for a year. She never submitted a test and the year has come and gone with no attempt by mom to regain custody via DYFS or court system. I know that she initially dropped out of her inpatient program. I don't know what kind of treatment she had after that, if any. I know she receives no treatment now. Even if mom is doing well now, she seems a high risk for relapse. The DYFS plan was one year. At the end of the year, case worker called to find out how daughter is doing and closed the case. Even so, I agree that there caution is due with these visits given the history.
What is the easiest way to change custody? Is it possible for mother and I to sign an agreement and submit it? Family mediator? Unless mom already has other plans, I think I could persuade her to sign anything having to do with custody (that does not require her to pay anything). Should I get a written recommendation/requirements for custody and visitation from the DYFS worker?
What is UCCJEA? What are the possible consequences?
