[Archive]

Originally Posted By terry w

I live in the state of virgina.My husband wants to adopt my children. Where do I start ? If my ex refuses what can I do in virginia to get around it? Also my oldest is 18, so does she have to do anything? My ex rarely comes to see our 3 children never calls, moves and give no address or phone#. My oldest child graduated he never came, called or sent a card. I go through child support enforcement here. They are terrible they have never made him provide health insurance like they said and unless I say something they don't push when he is behind in support. If he moves I am the one that has to find him. My new husand has done more in 1 year then my ex has done since they were born. Please help

[snuggleebuggz]

Hello! In California if the father doesnt have any contact of any kind for a year it is considered abandonment and his parental right will be terminated. Check with your case worker. Hope that helps

[Val6]

It is certainly more expensive but obtaining an attorney is probably the best way to proceed with this. Here in KY, after 6 months with no contact, no support, etc., abandonment is the conclusion. My husband adopted our two oldest children 7 years and we had a friend that is an attorney and he took care of everything for us, making sure every t was crossed and every i was dotted. He (my attorney) said that it was very important to make sure there was nothing left undone in case of future surprises, and we have had one. After 12 years of not hearing from my former husband he has decided he wants to be a Daddy after all and is trying to get visitation rights with my children. This is why I tell you that maybe you would want to have a professional do this, just to make sure it is all in order!

Good luck!
Val