Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts
adopted children's legal rights
My ex-husband adopted my daughter when she was 4. We divorced about 4 years ago. She is 12 now and can't stand him. She hasn't been to his house in over a year and doesn't want to even talk to him. I do make her respond to him in some way, text or email at best. He isn't very nice to her and their has been emotional and verbal abuse toward both she and I. I have been told that adopted children have all the rights. What can she do. Now he is threatening that she come to his house. Of course she's refused and told me flat out that if I make her go she'll walk home from there. What are her legal rights in this unusual situation?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: adopted children's legal rights
I assume you are the same person who posted minutes ago pretending to be the 12 year old child you now seem so concerned about. Not a good move. You should seek an attorney and advocate on behalf of your daughter.
Re: adopted children's legal rights
Adopted children have no more and no fewer rights than children genetically born to a parent. Adoptive parents have no more and no fewer rights, by the same token.
If visitation goes poorly, modifications should be sought by the custodial parent. However, be aware taht there is obvious pain on both sides, resulting in anger suifficient for someone to post falsely. Counselling for all concerned is in the child's best interest -- child, father (he took the duty, and deserves the title regardless of whether he is an "ideal" father) and mother. The adults need to take the lead in reducing the problem, and should do so BEFORE seeking legal advice.
Greg Lee
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