Need Help Dealing With CPS.

Are you currently living with the baby's mother, who I gather is not your wife? Is she a substance abuser? Are you a substance abuser? I don't think you're being really forthright or completely honest about the facts of your situation.

It sounds as though the baby was removed from the mother's care because of her substance abuse. If you also live with the mother, they would have to separate the child from you as well in order to place her in a safer or more appropriate environment. It sounds as though they want you to help get the mother into some sort of drug treatment as a condition of returning the child to the home. You may not be doing anything to directly abuse your daughter, but you're also unable to protect her from her mother's substance abuse, and the effects of such abuse on the care and welfare of this child.

Did CPS tell you that your status of being on probation is affecting your rights as a father? What rights are you seeking? Do you want sole custody of this child, so that you can care for her in a separate residence? Are you prepared and able to do that? Do you want visitation rights while the baby is in foster care? Just what rights are you seeking? And what responsibilities are you willing to undertake? Does CPS want to move to terminate all parental rights of both you and the baby's mother--is the situation that serious?

Have you discussed this situation with your probation officer? That person may well be able to clarify your position for you, and to be a resource for you.

Has CPS advised you of your legal rights in this situation? Have they told you exactly what they want and expect of you? Have there been any court hearings concerning this child? If so, have you attended them? Have you inquired about getting legal representation for yourself, to express, and protect, your interests in this matter?

Your primary concern should be the welfare and well being of your newborn child. But all you're talking about are your "rights"? What about the welfare of this child? Your concern for your child doesn't seem very strong--it certainly seems to be taking a back seat to your feelings concerning yourself.