Adopting a grandchild

I live in the state of Tennessee and my grandson was born in Tennessee. I have had full custody of him since his birth, he is now 5 years old. His mother (my daughter)left when he was 4 weeks old. We have not seen or heard from her in over 3 years and we would like to adopt our grandchild, How do we go about this (adoption)when we don't even know where his mother is or even if she is alive? Can you give us some insight on what to do? We do not know who is birth father is, it is listed as unknown on his birth certificate and I did get full custody of grandson by going to court. Thank you

[This message has been edited by kattzz99 (edited October 17, 2000).]

Do you have full legal custody ie. went to court and was granted full legal custody?

Is there a biological father involved? Know where he is if there is one involved?

How sad that you haven't heard from her in that long a time. I can't imagine how that must be. Will you be able to afford to go see a lawyer? In cases like this, it is imperative that the proper channels be covered but after you answer some more questions, I am sure we can guide you.

<BLOCKQUOTE><font size="1" face="Verdana, Arial">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Always searching:
[b]Do you have full legal custody ie. went to court and was granted full legal custody?

Is there a biological father involved? Know where he is if there is one involved?

How sad that you haven't heard from her in that long a time. I can't imagine how that must be. Will you be able to afford to go see a lawyer? In cases like this, it is imperative that the proper channels be covered but after you answer some more questions, I am sure we can guide you. [/b]<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yes I did get full custody in a court of law, and no I do not know or have ever seen his birth father and his father is listed as unknown on his birth certificate. Thank you

[LegalBeagle]

I always hate giving this advice out.. but, you need to go see an attorney. You have a fair chance at adopting the child but you can not do it without an attorney.

I see that you added some information on your first post which actually answered my questions on my post. I apologize for being redundant.

This should be very simple. If indeed you do not know where your daughter is, the family law attorney will publish in the newspaper the last known address of your daughter for a period of aprox. 4 weeks. The attorney might also send a certified, return receipt letter, to her. When these items come back, then that should be proof enough that she cannot be located. You might need additonal proof that you have attempted to contact her with no avail. Perhaps a family friend that is a reputable witness or someone not related that could vouch and swear that you have made honest attempts to contact your daughter. Then he will prepare the papers to petition the court for adoption. It should cost in the range of around $1500.


[This message has been edited by Always searching (edited October 17, 2000).]