My boyfriend’s child is basically being legally kidnapped by his grandmother.

Location: Lake Charles, Louisiana

My boyfriend’s ex passed away suddenly on June 25th. They share a 10 month old child together. He’s consistently sent money for the baby, bought diapers, clothes, wipes, baby food, etc… he’s been in consistent contact with the baby’s mother until her death. He has proof of all of this. He’s been an extremely active father & I’ve witnessed this first hand as well. Unfortunately when his ex passed away her mother swooped in, hid the death from my boyfriend, & claimed that the baby had no contact with his father & that he was an absent parent. She hired a lawyer & got temporary custody of the child based on completely fabricated claims of possible child abuse & neglect. My boyfriend just found this out from one of his best friends on July 22nd. We live in Fort Worth, TX. So we immediately drove to Lake Charles. Went to get the birth certificate & talk to a lawyer. We have custody court on September 30th. According to the temporary custody paperwork he was awarded 48 hours every 15 days with the child & when he reaches out to the child’s grandma she refuses to cooperate. We’ve called so many lawyers offices & even paid $100 to SWLA to get a consultation with one of their “low cost” lawyers. High end lawyers are completely out of budget & even the low cost lawyer wants $3,000 up front & $800 every court date. I’m not really quite sure what to do… my boyfriend is devastated & wants to be reunited with his son. We’re no where near rich & this whole situation is killing him. What are our chances of winning in court without a lawyer? If he does represent himself what are the first steps that we need to take? Could he really lose his child based on lies? I’m from Texas & know nothing about Louisiana law. We’re just at a dead end & would appreciate any advice given! TIA