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.
Question Me and my fiancee getting married he has a daughter from a pervious
relationship. The Daughter would be living with us permanently with in a year
her mother lives in another country i would like to adopt her for many different
reasons one of the main reason are being able to make decision on her well-
being. can a child be adopted with out the birth mother giving up parental
rights
Answer Hi Doris - I am not a lawyer, but it would be highly unusual for a judge to approve an adoption when there has been no voluntary or involuntary relinquishment from the birth mother of the child. Unless the birth mother has neglected or abused this child in the past, or if she is willing to relinquish her rights, it seems unlikely that you'll be able to adopt.
Whether you are legally this child's mother or not, you will have a maternal role when she is living with you. I advise that you focus on that relationship and to work closely with your husband around parenting issues.
I know several people who have parented their spouse's children without ever adopting them and they still have a very close relationship with these children.
