Adoption

[windy_fl]

can we stop this??? PLEASE HELP!!!

My husband has a 4 year old daughter with his ex-girlfriend in WV. She married this year and we have just received a notice of petition for adoption from the woman and her husband. My husband has tried many times to be a part of the child's life, but his ex always dodged us. We moved to Florida this earlier this year and nobody has allowed him to talk to his daughter. We don't know the phone number or address or anything! While we were in WV, we lived less than 5 miles from her and every time we tried to see the child, his ex would have some lame excuse. He has asked several times to pay support but he has been refused because "then he could see the baby". He and I have also asked for the child's clothing sizes and shoe sizes and we have been told "she has everything she needs". These people are trying to force him to give up rights that he has never had! Prior to his ex's marriage, she lived with her family and they went so far as to threaten him with trespassing if he came around. Is there anything we can do from Florida to stop this? My husband loves his daughter and talks about her all the time. He hasn't been given a chance to know her and it's not fair that they expect him to resign himself to the pending adoption. Please help! Thank you.

[Edited by windy_fl on 12-24-2000 at 11:47 AM]

 

[MySonsMom]

If your husband is against the adoption/termination of parental rights, then he will need to retain an attorney to contest it. You have so many days to do this, and since your hubby has already been sent the notice/papers your time is limited. To stop it or put a hault on it, you will need an attorney to contest it. Talk long and hard with your hubby about WHAT IS BEST FOR THIS CHILD. She HAS had a Father in her life. If your hubby wishes to contest this, then be prepared to pay court ordered child support, PLUS possibly back child support for the past 4 years. If this Mother wishes to ask for past child support, then your hubby will most likely have to pay a lump sum amount of money. Which can add up quite quick. Give you an example..The child is 4 @ $200/month. (and that is minimal child support) That is $9,600 plus any future support/medical bills. A lot for you guys to think about. On the flip side, if your hubby allows for the adoption to take place; I suggest you make her agree to waive any past child support that has incurred throughout the 4 yrs..Therefore your hubby will owe nothing. A lot to think about..Good luck!