LETTER FROM A FRIEND

Leah looked at the papers and said that the fact that they have a restraining order and a no contact order with the removal is significant. That is more than would usually be done in such cases. The hearing on wed will be in front of a magistrat instead of a judge which is not significant just how the court is manageing the case load up there.
Leah doubts that there will be a final determination on wed and most likely will still be a temporary custody order but will probably be for a longer period of time while the permanent custody arrangement is decided. She thinks you all will probably go back home with Carrie and then within a few days the magistrat will make a determination.
Leah also thinks this is a very positive move for your side. To get a disinterested party (GAL) that goes in and asked for an emergency removal is a very strong positive in your favor and also unusual.

Call Billy A because he worked for the state child protection folks, whatever it is called in Ohio, and he can give you an excellent idea of what would happen in Ohio. [...] I think that he is going to be your best source of inside info for the Ohio system.

I assume that the ideal goal would be permanent custody with you and your brother and ultimate termination of rights with the mother then maybe down the road adoption of Carrie by you with your brother's termination of his rights and letting you do a private adoption. That of course is way down the line and something that would be good for everybody involved but probably not something you need to discuss with your brother at this time. It certainly seems that your brother is well aware of his limitations in raising a child and after meeting him I see how really limited he is.
You are a good man and so is Kent. You both have my love, respect and admiration.
Let me know if there is anything you need from me and I am excited about the baby shower!!
P.S. I have many practical survival tips for raising children. :-)