Legal Question in Family Law in New Jersey
Adoption due to abandonment
My daughter was left with me the order was for joint custody but at age 2 she was dropped off for my visitation and never picked up or called for. After I became involved with someone the other parent popped in and out spuratically for a year or two. After that the other parent stopped contacting us all together. The other parent was married with a child and got divorced and lost custody of that child. That parent has not seen our child in 5 years. We dont know where to find the other parent unless we contact a relative. Is it our responsibility to track that person down. I am remarried and my child, our child, has been with us since 3 now 10. What rights do we have for adoption or abandonment. Do we have a responsibility to find the other parent?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Adoption due to abandonment
It would seem to me that your husband would have a very good chance of being able to obtain a "Step-Parent Adoption" of your child, under the circumstances that you have described. You would need to have an attorney process this action for you.
Keep in mind that this advice is based purely on the little bit ofinformation that you have given to me. There certainly may be other facts that would change my opinion. And, no one can rely on the opinion of an attorney who has not been retained. Before you do anything, you should consult with an attorney who has experience with adoptions. I would be happy to discuss this matter with you if you would call me. Mention Law Guru and your first one hour consultation is free. Good luck! Rob Gleaner
Re: Adoption due to abandonment
Your spouse can apply to adopt your child with your consent with notice of the adoption to your former spouse.
Your former spouse will not be hard to locate using a website to which I have access as a lawyer. If he choses to contest the adoption it will probably be granted anyway because he
has abandoned his parental responsibilities.
Call me if you like.
Gary Moore, Esquire
Hackensack, New Jersey
www.garymooreattorneyatlaw.com
Related Questions & Answers
Looking for something else?
10,200 active attorneys ready to answer your legal questions today.
Featured Attorneys
Earn additional revenue and grow your business.
