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That's a rough row to hoe.
The big thing is the health and welfare of the child, period. You concentrate on that. Reassure the child that she isn't responsible for her mother's actions and that she won't grow up to be like her.
I once put my arms around a thirteen year old young lady and told her, "it skips generations. If you want to know what you're going to be like when you grow up. Don't look at your mama. Look at your grandma."
I believe that.
And when your granddaughter (there's no such word as a step grand anything) is able to understand that. I'd point out to her that she's got much more of a chance of becoming like her grandpa than her birthmother.
I'm sure somewhere in your home there's saying about changing what you can, accepting what you can't, and having the wisdom to know the difference.
You have no control over the mother of the child. So you have to accept that. You have no control over the legal system, accept that.
But you can be a great role model for your granddaughter. By your example she can learn what a real woman--mother is and develop the kind of respect for that image that'll make you proud.
Count your blessings. The birth mother could be a lot more disruptive. If you don't think so, cruise these forums.
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