AboutPeter C. Winkler, CSW Expertise I have experience with adoption subsidy, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children and variety of other adoption related matters. I hope that I can be helpful to those who are considering adoption or would like to adopt a child.
Experience I am a social worker with an MSW and I have over thirty years of experience in family and children's services. I have worked as Director of adoption services and of the Interstate Compact in a large state agency. I have also provided direct services to children and families in a preventive services program. I currently prepare adoption studies for those who are adopting domestically or internationally.
Expert: Peter C. Winkler, CSW Date: 12/4/2007 Subject: Can DHS really adopt my nephew to my brothers ex-girlfriend before biological family (Oregon)
Question My nephew has been in foster care since December 06. He is now a year old. 8 weeks ago he was placed in the home with my mom and the childs half-sibling and his mother for temporary placement. It looks like my brothers and his current girlfriend's right are going to be terminated. DHS is wanting to give my nephew to the half siblings mother because they are considering her family because of the sibling relationship. DHS stated that she has more rights than any biological family member. We were told to have a family meeting to discuss what would be best for the child and both the maternal and paternal sides of the family have agreed that our home would be the best. My brother and girlfriend were both going to relinquish their rights if the child would go to the person from the family meeting. However, in the mean time the DHS case worker had been working with the half-siblings mom and told her not to worry that she would get to adopt the child no family would be considered. This was all done with no family involvement. I told the case worker that that is not what the family wants, she said that the siblings mom is family and that the child would stay in the family. I do not see how that is. If he is adopted by this other woman he will no longer be related to any of us, how is that keeping him in the family. He will have a whole new family. I need advice. I have contacted the Oregon Governor, and both Senators and have not heard anything back, just last night I emailed Mrs. Bush and Mrs. Cheney. How can I get my nephew and get him before Dhs goes to court?
Melissa
Answer Dear Melissa- The best advice I can give is to secure a lawyer who will represent your family in this matter. The lawyer will be in a better position to negotiate with DHS and can also represent you in court. If the cost of a lawyer is a problem, check with law schools in your area and your local Bar Association to see if any free or low cost services are offered.
