[ianlad]

Hi me and my girlfriend have just broke up after nine years.we have three girls but I'm only the biological dad to two of them.while we were together we talked about me adopting the other daughter.even though we are separated me my ex and my daughter still want me to adopt her she is twelve years old now.her biological dad has not seen her since she was a few months old and made no effort to contact her.could you tell me if there is any chance of me adopting her and if so would we have to find her biological dad and ask for his permision. The daughter would still be living at home with her mother many thanks ian

[Synnen]

Odds of you being able to adopt now that you're divorced are low.

Yes, you need the father's permission, at least in most states.

What you need right now is an attorney, because your case is waaaaay too complicated by a marriage, a divorce, and lack of contact by the biological parent.

[Fr_Chuck]

First you were never married to her I guess you use the word girlfriend, and many states require you be married

But all require you have a long term relationship, so no, now that you are broke up, you will not be able to adopt.

But to try, you and your ex get lawyer, and file.