I just picked up the Step-Parent adoption book in the library that also includes the CD's for the forms. However, my dilemna is this:
(a little background)...
My children's biodad (ex-husband) is a convicted stalker. He stalked me from 1991 until he was convicted on two counts (death threats and the act) in 1996. My husband and I have been married since 1994 and he would like to adopt our now 12 and 14 year old children. My main concern is providing my home address to the court (where my ex could see it).
Will a judge allow me to just post a PO Box (I am more than willing to provide my home address to anyone but my ex)?
I have maintained a PO Box in case biodad ever wanted to write to the kids (he never has). The last time he had contact with the kids was once in 1995. That year, he gave up his visitation in court and was advised that he could petition to see the kids again if he agreed to psychological testing (he had called the police department and advised them that he was going to kidnap and kill the kids by cutting them up and throwing them into a canal). In 1997, his mother petitioned the court for grandparent visitation rights and was denied. The last actual child support check was sent in June of 1999 (he sent two checks that year).
My kids are old enough that they will be required to consent. How much weight does their opinion carry?
I'm reading that I should check his last known address, verify this through DMV records, voter's registration, and then contact some of his family members. This is scary to me, but I'll do it if it has to be done. How much digging do I need to do? Can I do some checking and then publish?
Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Brenda