[xxsurroundedbyxy]

First off, the child is in custody of the state so your sister cannot sign custody over to you as she doesn't have it to give.

Second, you would have to be a kinship placement and you would have certain requirements to meet. To ever adopt, your sister's parental rights would have to be terminated and often times the court orders a "no contact" rule which means the child can not have ANY contact with the birth parent if the judge deems necessary (and this may help you decide whether you want her around or not because the judge may make that decision for you)

The judge will also be the one to decide where this child goes. Your sister has absolutely ZERO say in the matter. The caseworker can work with you and let the judge know about your interest in the child etc. But ultimately, the judge decides where that child goes.

Third, please consider this child's bond with the foster family. They are the only family this child remembers if he has been there for 14 months and is only 2 years old. If these people want to adopt this child I for one think they are in his best interest as he does not even know you. I am sure you would make excellent parents, but he will not understand that.

Be prepared for the judge to ask why you are just now stepping forward and showing interest in the child when he has been a ward of the state for so long. And when you say that it is because the mother made you aware of the situation and wants you to parent her child, the judge may decide against you for that very reason. He will see through the mother's attempt to maintain "custody" through a relative placement.

They will do a homestudy, criminal background check, and many other "tests" to ensure you are nothing like your sister. Be prepared and if you truly feel like you are where this child needs to be....then I wish you all the best. Good Luck!

Kim