[TaraLani]

My husband and I actually live in FL, but my sister in law and all 6 of her kids are in SC. The kids have been in foster care for over a year and half now, and my SIL is going to sign them over to the state, because she can't (won't) meet their requirements. I know that she really has no say over who gets them, but is there any loophole that she could go through to sign them to my husband and I? Any? And since we are in FL, do we qualify for SC legal aid? DSS isn't working with us at all, and have actually flat out lied to us (and we have proof, but that's not the issue at hand.) Is there ANYTHING that we can do? Need advice ASAP. TIA.

~Heather

[Kat-L]

Originally Posted by TaraLani

My husband and I actually live in FL, but my sister in law and all 6 of her kids are in SC. The kids have been in foster care for over a year and half now, and my SIL is going to sign them over to the state, because she can't (won't) meet their requirements. I know that she really has no say over who gets them, but is there any loophole that she could go through to sign them to my husband and I? Any? And since we are in FL, do we qualify for SC legal aid? DSS isn't working with us at all, and have actually flat out lied to us (and we have proof, but that's not the issue at hand.) Is there ANYTHING that we can do? Need advice ASAP. TIA.

~Heather

At this point, the foster parents (if they've had the kids for a year and a half) have the right to adopt the kids if they are available. They would be really bonded at this point. Usually extended family has to come forward early to request custody (which is difficult when you are several states away). The kids have a lawyer who will be looking out for their best interest. You should get a lawyer as well and see if the court would consider you for placement. If the kids are in different foster homes and you're willing to adopt all 6 to keep them together, you may have a better shot.