Custody of non-relative

[Devt45]

My husband and I are from Alaska. We have been taking care of our son's friend for the past 4 months because his mother was never home and he had no food. His mother has recently asked us to keep him until he graduates in 3 years. he is 16 now. I am wondering what is the best way to do this. Should we go for gaurdianship or power of attorney or what? We have tried to be foster parents but the state will not step in because he is not in any danger right now. We would have to send him back home to starve awhile before they will help. We are worried that without some legal papers we could be liable if something should happen to him. His mother would sign over custody to us but we cannot afford a lawyer for all this. What can we do??? Please help!!!

 

[deefran]

You can look into hiring a paralegal as they cost less than attorneys. You do need to try and at least attain guardianship of the boy, as without this you can not enroll him in school, seek medical treatment for him, etc. You can also research all the information you may need and petition the courts for guardianship/custody. HINT: Many lawyers have free initial consultations, so meet with a few, find out your options and proceed from there. Good Luck.