There are a lot of different isues swirling around in your question.  The legal status of a parent doe not necessarily have an effect on their rights to their children, but may have a practical effect on their ability to either exercise their rights.  As fr not seeing the child for 8 months, that is a plus for you to try and establish that the other parent wants nothing to do with the child and possibly to help limit visitation. Decide what it is here you wish to happen then seek legal help in your area.  Good luck.