l need to know if a grandmother can file for adoption of her grandaughter that has been taken by dss from her stepdaughter

Unfortunately, in cases with DSS,  parents, and relatives are usually at a disadvantage.  DSS has a myriad of resources and often makes decisions that may negatively impact the interest of the family.  It is critical that you contact DSS and let them know that you are interested in adoption if that is an option.  The law requires that DSS try to rehabilitate the parent or correct the problem before terminating parental rights.  If they are seeking to terminate the rights of the parent(s), this may suggest that the case has been going on for more than 6 months.  If this is the case, you may wish to file a custody petition, which will give you a legal basis to contest the actions of DSS. If you do not have a petition pending, you do not have standing or the right to challenge the actions of DSS. The nature of these cases is too complex to discuss in a blog.  I suggest that you invest in meeting with a family lawyer to discuss this matter in greater detail. Lawyers charge by the hour for consultations, so please be prepared to discuss fees upfront to avoid misunderstandings.  Finally, you need to act quickly to avoid losing the right to intervene in the case.   You are facing an uphill battle but the outcome will hinge on the law, as applied to the facts in your case.  Best of luck~