Legal Question in Family Law in Missouri

Adoption without Consent

I moved to England in April 2000. My daughter is nearly 8. Since moving to England, I have tried to contact my ex-wife, but no reply. I have continued to write to my daughter.

I have just heard that my daughter has been adopted and her name changed.

Is it possible for my daughter to be adopted without a through check of my wishes? My ex-wife knows I would never agree to this. No attempt to contact me has been made via my Mother or my old address.

If this is so, what can I do?


Asked on 4/03/01, 1:04 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Michael R. Nack Michael R. Nack, Attorney at Law

Re: Adoption without Consent

To begin with, let me say that I sympathize with you. It appears that you have a serious legal problem, and there may not be any easy solution. In order to determine if anything can be done, it would be necessary for your attorney to locate and review the court file in the adoption proceedings. Under our state statutes and local circuit court rules there are procedures providing for "service by publication" in cases where a party can not be located for service of process (legal pleadings and summons). Sometimes, the person instituting the proceedings makes no effort to locate the other interested party, and sometimes even lies about the other party's whereabouts.It may be possible in certain cases to seek a court order setting aside the adoption, and reopening the matter for full consideration of your position. Most attorneys will require a retainer fee and charge an hourly rate for all work performed in attempting to help you whether or not successful results are obtained. Still, if your relationship with your daughter is important to you it would seem advisable for you to hire a local lawyer in the county where you believe the adoption took place. If you are not already represented by such legal counsel, you may call me for a free telephone consultation at 314-727-2822. I will be happy to offer my services to you for a modest fee if I am able to help. Thank you.

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Answered on 6/08/01, 1:04 am


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