Trying to Get Custody of Grandchild

My question involves a child custody case from the State of: Florida

My son recently passed away. He left behind a son of his own. The child's mother abandoned him shortly after my son's death, without my knowledge. She left him with a friend of hers and signed over temporary custody to that friend. The friend is not a blood relative to the child. As soon as I found out I contacted DCF and put in a motion to the court to get custody of my grandson. I got advise from a local lawyer to combine the 2 court cases for custody, mine and the mothers friends. I went before the magistrate today and he told me he cannot combine the cases unless I currently have custody of the child or I have permission from the child's mother. I have neither. The mother left town and the child is left with her friend. He told me not to lose hope, there is another way. Except he cannot tell me the way and recommends I get a lawyer. I don't have $1500 for a lawyer. I'm hoping someone knows the answer to his riddle. Any advise is much appreciated.

Trying to Get Custody of Grandchild