I found the parent who abandoned her son who has been in my care for 7 months?

Question

I became his caregiver and he has lived in my home for 7 months now, not once have i been contacted by his mother or father. i support him financially and have obtained a special education attorney who is aiding me with his educational needs. I have worked hard to retrieve school records, medical records ETC. I have recently located an older sibling of his and she informed me that she knows the whereabouts of his mother. I asked her if she could have her call me.she stated the mother agreed to give me custody for her son. how do we do this and what legal paperwork needs to be prepared. she abandoned him since 9yrs old. and never tried to contact me or locate her son in the past 7 months that he has been in my care? what should i do????

Answer 1

Ok thats really strange. so you kept him and did nothing when she didn't pick up her son? usually one would call the police. Who are you exactly?  Why did she leave him with you?  I am sorry but he probably will go into the court system and foster homes before you could adopt if thats what your planning to do! I don't think its that easy that you can just keep him - hes not a puppy. something just doesn't sound right! poor kid!

WOW that is so sad!  Your Q and A are private but I read your intro. Please give this boy some stability - he needs it!  I would guess that your best bet is to contact DCFS and tell them the mother abandoned her child and you have tried contacting her. She gives up rights basically by doing that.  They like having things in writing so try to get the sister to sign a paper stating the mother has given up rights and wants the child to go to you. See if the mom can sign which would be even better if she is not mentally challeneged that is. See if she does that, hopefully she does and makes the transition easier. Once you obtain legal guardianship you can prepare for adoption proceedings which you need a lawyer for. I hope the best for the poor kiddo and you too.  Good luck!

Answer 2

If the mother isn't talking to you and has abandoned the boy, get a lawyer who specializes in this type of thing and get custody as soon as you can.