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View Full Version : Stepmother Rights to continue raises Stepson


tammybwhite
Jul 22, 2010, 11:30 AM
My husband would like to know that upon his death, would I be able to legally continue to raise his son. His son is now 14, and the Mother has no custody rights at this time because of drug use and psychological issues. She has been out of the picture for quite a few years. What is the procedure if Husband wishes for ME to have custody if something was to happen to him, even though the child has a living bio Mother/Grandparents? Grandparents also wish to have custody. Thanks.

cdad
Jul 22, 2010, 11:59 AM
Have you discussed adoption of the child? First between yourself and your husband and then the child? That is really your only way to insure you keep custody.

tammybwhite
Jul 22, 2010, 01:15 PM
What would be the process of adoption? Costs?

cdad
Jul 22, 2010, 02:15 PM
Costs? That is an unknown at this point. The more cooperation you receive the cheaper its going to be. It most likely depends on the mother. If she works with you or against you. From what you have said the courts may take her rights away if an adoption is taking place. So even if she tried to fight it then it can still happen just more expensive that way.

tammybwhite
Jul 22, 2010, 04:56 PM
Thanks!

stevetcg
Jul 23, 2010, 08:51 AM
For what its worth, in FL, if all parties agree on the adoption, it costs $403 plus I believe $25 for the new birth certificate.