My sister in law, Stacy, has been with her boyfriend James for 6-7 years living together. He has a history of drug abuse (goes to methadone clinic currently).

Stacy is 35 and wants a baby but James doesn’t because she has ‘’mental issues’. They both agreed to couples counseling and if she’s better - he will reconsider on having a child. Fast forward - they now have a 7 month old boy.

James is rarely home (work, gym, etc) and Stacy feels like she’s all alone taking care of the baby.

They have arguments constantly. Things are thrown around in the house, holes in the wall. On Mother’s Day, she was called ‘trash’ and a ‘terrible mother’

I’ve been telling her to leave this situation but it’s easier said than done. They have a new car, living in an apartment.

If this goes to court, will the baby be with the mother? Will he have to pay child support if they aren’t married? What would you do to support?