Child Custody In Pennsylvania

Summary

The user is seeking full custody of her son in Pennsylvania. The childs father is reportedly disinterested and does not spend quality time during visits. The user has text messages as evidence of the fathers lack of engagement. The user is currently unemployed and on Medicaid, and is seeking free legal aid to pursue the custody case.

Full Conversation

Custody
Are you seeking custody of a child? If so, are you currently going through a divorce or separation?
Im seeking custody of my son. His father & i are no longer together
What state are you currently residing in? This is important as child custody laws can vary from state to state.
Pennsylvanian
What is the current custody arrangement with your son's father? In Pennsylvania, courts consider the best interest of the child when determining custody.
My son lives with me & we meet up so he can visit him.
What is the frequency and duration of these visits?

In Pennsylvania, the court considers the child's relationship with both parents, including time spent and activities shared.
Its about an hour, he doesnt really do anything with him when we meet.
What specific concerns do you have about your son's father's visits? In Pennsylvania, the court considers the quality of time spent during visits.
He doesnt spend time with him. Sees him for a few minutes & leaves
What evidence do you have to support your claim about the father's lack of engagement during visits? In Pennsylvania, such evidence can influence custody decisions.
Text messages
What do these text messages indicate about the father's engagement during visits? In Pennsylvania, evidence like text messages can be used in custody hearings.
It determines the time spent with him
What is the content of these text messages? In Pennsylvania, the court may consider evidence like text messages in custody hearings.
My sons relationship with his father.
What specific issues are highlighted in these text messages regarding your son's relationship with his father?
Him being late to his birthday party, only staying for * minutes
What impact do you believe this has had on your son's relationship with his father? In Pennsylvania, the court considers the child's relationship with both parents when determining custody.
His dad doesnt show any interest in our son, he used to smile when he saw his dad & the last time we met with him he looked scared.
What actions have you taken so far to address this issue? In Pennsylvania, you can file for a modification of the custody order if circumstances have changed significantly.
I want custody
What steps have you taken so far in your pursuit of gaining full custody?

In Pennsylvania, you can file a petition for child custody in the county where your child lives.
Im trying to find a free lawyer
What is your financial situation? In Pennsylvania, you may qualify for free legal aid if you meet certain income requirements.
Im not working i have no income
Have you applied for any public assistance programs such as unemployment benefits, food stamps, or Medicaid? In Pennsylvania, these can be considered as income.
Medicaid
What is your Medicaid status? Are you currently receiving benefits? In Pennsylvania, Medicaid can help cover some legal costs related to child custody cases.