Adoption

[cathecat]

I am a single mother with 3 children, there are two different fathers. My daughter has one father and my two sons have another. My daughter's father has not been in her life since she was born, but does have a child support order against him. The father of my sons has been in her life and has been taking care of her financially and emotionally. I want to start making a will, but was told that no matter who I select as guardian, the natural parent has right to custody if they want it. I do not want her father to have custody in case something does happen to me. The father of my sons said he would adopt her. Can I do this without her natural father signing over rights?

 

[Michael Wechsler]

I would file in court to ensure that there is legal recognition of 'abandonment' by the natural father. After a certain number of years, this status can be obtained and it varies from state to state. This might help you accomplish what you seek.