Adoption

What is the name of your state? I live in Maryland. I currently have legal custody of my granddaughter who will, in a few weeks, be four years old. This happened because neither her mother nor father were capable financially or emotionally able to care for the child themselves. I was wondering if neither parent tries to gain custody for a certain period of time, will I be, by some sort of "default", able to adopt the child without either parent's consent? And if so, how long must I have custody in order for this to occur?

Are you saying you have a legal guardianship of the kids?

If so, your control over them remains unless that guardianship is revoked.

The parents would have to petition the court for the guardianship to be revoked, and then the court would have to determine what's in the best interests of the kids.

My guess is that the court would probably scoff at their petition because you have been the caregiver for these kids when their own parents couldn't be bothered to perform that task.

Most of the time you'd have to be a crackhead or have some other very serious problem in order for the court to give them back to the Johnny Come Lately parents.

Yes, a person can adopt children without the parents knowledge or consent, if certain conditions are met.

Every state's requirements are different, and I do not know the requirements in your state.

I would suggest that you talk to an attorney who gives free initial consultations in your state and find out what your options are.

Best of luck to you!