How much would it cost to go for full custody? How would I go about doing so? Anything I need to do or know?

You would be seeking sole custody.  If the father has had no involvement and not supported her, you have a chance at getting sole legal custody and primary physical custody with sole determination about any visitation the father gets.     Please note that if he decides to challenge your request, he may get visitation rights, depending on the judge who hears your case.     If you want to disestablish paternity (what you reference as "abandonment"), you would need to prove to the judge that it is in the best ineterest of the child and that you can support her sufficiently.  Judges are reluctant to do this because they want a child to have a parent if something happens to the other parent.  But, it is possible.    Attorney fees vary greatly and the total cost depends on how hard the father fights what you want.  Thus, it could be anywhere from $2,000 - $10,000 to handle the case.  Most attorneys will do a consultation so they can give you an estimate.    Donna Miller 515-245-4300 /http://www.grefesidney.com/our-team/donna-miller/