Hi. I have been with my now partner since my daughter was 10 weeks old. She was born sept 2004. My previous partner left me when I was pregnant and made it clear he would not be part of our child's life. He has a mental illness from a r.t.a and for this reason, I understood and continued with the pregnancy alone. He has not seen her or showed any interest in her at all and if anything, has been absolutely disgusting towards her existence. However, the csa got on to him and in November 2005 he ordered a paternity test which I took no problems and so did my daughter. The tests came back that he was the father (like I knew they would) and he then started to pay me £5 per week. However, he made these payments for only 6mths du to him being on benefits and I have had nothing since. My partner now has provided for my daughter, accepted her as his own and my daughter knows no different. She will be 3 in September and we have discussed adoption. This is something we both think would be beneficial or her stability. We are however unsure as to how to go about this. I am aware now though, that due to the paternity test taking place, my ex, although not on the birth certificate, will now have to be informed. Is this correct? Due to his illnesses, his lack of interest and none payments, will this be straight forward? How long would this take? I would appreciate any information on this subject that could help us on the right road. Thanks.

You will need to get a family law attorney to help you. Your ex will have to reliquish his parental rights in order for your daughter to be adopted.

How long will it take? That is an unknown as the courts are very busy places.

Will it be straight forward? It should be if your ex will give up his rights.