About IDA HUTCHERSON Expertise What are my options? How do I deal with an uncooperative birth father? What rights do the birth parents have? What is involved in an open adoption? How will I live with my decision afterward? How do I find the right adoptive family? What would Jesus want me to do when I find myself in a crisis pregnancy?
Experience Placed a child for open adoption in 2001 and it was the best thing I've ever done. I could have used someone like me to talk to. My approach to unplanned pregnancy is Christ-based and I would love to help those in need.
Organizations I am a speaker for Bethany Christian Adoption Agency and an advocate for adoption rights, etc.
Expert: IDA HUTCHERSON Date: 2/1/2005 Subject: parental rights
Question I live in Canada. My 14 year old daughter 's name is Hillary. I was very young when whe was born, and her mother was getting married to another man, so it seemed to be best to have her live with her mom and stepfather. I signed adoption papers to release Hillary and I waived my rights as a father. Now, some years later, Hillary and I spend each weekend together. Hillary wants to live with me, and i think it would be a great idea. I need to know my rights in this matter. Can you help?
Thanks.
Bruce Mills
bmills@ns.sympatico.ca
Answer Hi Bruce! Thanks for the question. Hope I can help. :)
First off - I am not a legal expert, and furthermore very ignorant to Canadian legislature regarding parental rights, etc. That said though, I would cautiously assume that the US and Canada are relatively similar regarding such matters. I would think that a 14 year old would have some say in choosing which parent she wants to live with. Regardless of what the legal perameters are. Is the mother agreeable to the arrangement? Have you supported your daughter financially at all? Sometimes talking things through before any legal options are played out is productive. I can find out specifics through some of my contacts if you would like. I'd start on your end by asking your ex what she thinks. Then go from there. She might surprise you and work out an agreement that pleases your daughter and yourself. First and foremost should be the best for your daughter though which I know goes without saying. Let me know if I can do anything!
