Oak Grove, LA asked in Adoption, Family Law and Child Custody for Missouri

Q: My fiancé’s kids’ father moved out of state and has not contacted them in months. Is this considered abondonment

My fiancé’s kids’ father moved to California 10 months ago (We live in Missouri) and has not spoken to them in 6 months. Is this considered a form of abondoment? If so, what steps can we take to terminate parental rights in order for me to adopt them? He “pays” child support (about $700) in the form of making the house payment. The oldest (3) asks/talks about him asking why he doesn’t want to live/be around him anymore. The youngest (1 1/2) doesn’t even know he exists and I am the only father figure she’s ever known. Her and I have a newborn about a week old now. Thanks

1 Lawyer Answer
Lydia Seifner
Lydia Seifner
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Springfield, MO
  • Licensed in Missouri

A: You and the children's mother will need to be married for six months before you can seek adoption. After that, talk to an adoption attorney local to you to assist you.

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