Thread: What will happen to a child taken from her mother due to drug abuse?

Someone I know used drugs before, during, and after her pregnancy. Her daughter was born with a drug addiction and is still in the hospital (3 weeks). If reported, I assume the child will be taken away, but will the family be able to take custody of the child legally? Or does the child HAVE to go into a foster care setting? I don't know how this works, and would like to possibly care for this child, but if I take the legal route I don't want the baby to go to strangers. Does anyone know how this works?

well, first off, the child was tested in the hospital and if so, the social workers are already involved. chances are, the mother will have to clean up her act. the child will also go to family first before entering the foster care system. a child born addicted to drugs has many things that can go wrong. especially a bit later, like during the school years.

The child will automatically go into foster care until family can be notified.

A fit and willing relative is the first choice placement for a child who has been taken into state custody because of abuse or neglect. Placement with a stranger, if it happens at all, should be short-term and temporary. If you believe you're capable of caring for the child and want to do so, you should contact child protective services right away and tell them you want the child placed with you. Be persistent. Bear in mind that you don't have to make a lifelong commitment in order to be approved for placement.