Yucca Valley, CA asked in Family Law, Juvenile Law and Adoption for California

Q: If my brother adopted my children in juvenile dependency court, is there any way to get visits through family law?

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: In California, if your brother has adopted your children through juvenile dependency court, the situation regarding visitation rights can be complex.

After an adoption is finalized, the legal relationship between the biological parents and the children is typically severed, and the adoptive parents gain full parental rights. This means that any visitation rights you previously had would usually cease.

However, there are instances where post-adoption visitation agreements are made. This usually happens when it's deemed to be in the best interest of the children, and both the adoptive parents and the biological parents agree to it.

It's crucial to approach this delicately, prioritizing the well-being of the children. You might want to discuss this possibility with your brother to see if a mutually agreeable arrangement can be made.

If an agreement can be reached, it's advisable to formalize it legally. This can be done through family law court, where a judge can issue an order that outlines the terms of visitation.

Remember, each case is unique, and the possibility of securing visitation rights through family law depends on specific circumstances. Consulting with a lawyer who is experienced in family law can provide guidance tailored to your situation.

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