MY DAUGHTERS MOTHER has just had our daughter by cps for a second time.

No parenting plan? Then it's high time you got one. With CPS involved twice, you need a lawyer. Go to Legal Services if you have trouble affording one. This is not something you should be handling yourself.

Direct relatives usually get "first dibs" on obtaining at least temporary custody or guardianship. You will still have to go through the courts and convince a judge to grant the order though. Get a lawyer before proceeding.

I agree. Get a lawyer.

The CPS is not your friend at this point. Say as little to them as possible, they are acting as prosecutors. This isn't to say they are your enemy, be polite to them. But they are not looking out for your best interest and often they err on the side of removing parental rights just to be on the safe side.

Don't say anything to CPS until you have a lawyer. A lawyer will help you navigate this minefield.

There are real consequences at stake, so get legal advice right away.

(I also agree about the parenting plan, but that seems a little less urgent.)