You would verbally request the continuance m, bringing any documents to support your reasons. Doesn’t mean it will be granted though.

Depends on what the current active court order calls for.

If it is not in the order that you cannot go, then you would be able to go.

Assuming you have no other child with the mother that is under 18, correct.

Without his agreement, you would need to obtain a new order, by filing a motion to modify and proving that there is a material change of...

You can. However, you will first (or at the same time) need to obtain an order granting you custody of the child.

Child could go to either parent, without an agreement a judge would decide.

Merits hearing is the final hearing for the court to make a final decision on the outcome of a case.

contact the state and advise them of the parents' abandonment and that you are not interested in caring for them. They will then go into foster care.

You are still married. You can file for divorce, if you so choose.