Legal Question in Family Law in South Carolina

Adopting

There is a 14 year old girl that I have been close to for some time now. I've been basically a mentor to her for the last couple of years. She called me the other day and asked me if there was any way possible that I can adopt her because she is going through a lot at home. She has been phsyically abused by her older brother, her mother is barely around (to busy having sex for drugs), and she hasn't been in a stable environment for the past year. I understand that I am only 21, but I am very mature and I've been on my own since I was 16. I also have a little girl of my own, so taking care of another child is no big deal to me, but what do I need to do in order for this little girl to be with me. It hurts me to my heart seeing her in the position she is in because I went through the some thing when I was younger, so I know how she feels. I just want her to have a better life. The child and I have already discussed the issuse, but I just need to know how to follow through with the process.


Asked on 5/27/08, 12:40 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Ben Stevens The Stevens Firm, P.A. Family Law Center

Re: Adopting

It is very difficult to adopt someone else's child without their consent. A better first step may be to try to get custody of the child, but you will need to prove unfitness on the part of both parents.

These cases are difficult, with many complex issues, and it is important that they be handled correctly. Therefore, it is important that you consult an experienced family law attorney to find out what options are available to you based on the facts of your particular case.

If you need more information, you can visit my family law blog (www.SCFamilyLaw.com) or our website (www.StevensFirm.com). I wish you the best of luck.

Ben Stevens

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Answered on 5/27/08, 1:23 pm


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