[mistychic20]

I have a 6 month old daughter. Her father has not seen her yet and he is not on the birth certificate. Me and my fiancé (not her father) are about to get married and are looking into him adopting her. I am wanting to know what to expect and what rights if any the father has. I have filed for child support but its early and the dna test hasn't even been done yet. We can live without his money. Any help is appreciated. Thank!

[Synnen]

Get a lawyer.

The birth father has rights, even if he is not on the birth certificate. You will have to contact him and ask him if he will sign off his rights.

As far as the actual adoption--after the birth father has signed away his rights, you petition in court for your husband to adopt. While it is possible to have a fiancé adopt in some states, most want a permanent situation, such as marriage, in place before granting an adoption.

A family lawyer in your area will know the best ways for you to accomplish all of this.

[Fr_Chuck]

Yes, the birth father will have to sign over his rights for you new partner to adopt. Also many states will want you to be married to him and others will want a long lasting relationship, together over one year