1. I love my boyfriend, and he loves me, but sometimes we argue and then he's abusive. What can I do to protect the baby and myself?

Every state has laws prohibiting abuse. You may want to speak to your local police department about any abuse prevention programs they run. Also find out what steps to take if you need a restraining order.

2. Will his abusive behavior make any difference when we set up a custody and visitation plan?

It could. If you feel your boyfriend would hurt the baby, you may need to ask the court to appoint a visitation supervisor. You'll have to tell the judge why you believe that's necessary. If he's really dangerous, the court may prohibit him from seeing the baby under any circumstances.

3. Who would act as a visitation supervisor?

Sometimes it's a trusted family member, but that's not always possible. The court could choose a social service agency that handles supervised visitation. If father has money, he may be ordered to pay the supervisor. That can be expensive, although supervised visits usually take place only a few times a month for an hour or two.

4. He loves the baby. I don't think he would hurt her, but I'm afraid of him and when he comes to the house to pick her up, he yells and screams at me. He's hurt me in the past. Is there anything I can do to protect myself and still let him see the baby?

You may need a court order that says your boyfriend can't come into your home, even to pick up the baby. The court could order him to wait outside your home in his car at curbside. Sometimes it's preferable to arrange for him to pick up and drop off the baby outside your local police station or at some other public location.