I’m dealing with a complicated custody situation and need advice. My mom adopted a child back in 2019, but things have gotten messy. The biological dad (her ex’s son) has a history of abuse and was living in the adoptive dad’s home, which violates the adoption terms. The adoptive dad was found guilty of neglect and agreed to supervised visits, but now the court says his older daughter, who has her legal issues can do supervision, including a dismissed assault charge and welfare fraud. This whole situation is taking a toll on the child, who’s terrified of her father’s family. Any advice on how we can argue against this arrangement in court or how to make the case stronger? Can older documents still hold up in court? Thanks for reading!
Wow, this sounds so stressful. Can you use the dismissed assault charge against the daughter? IDK how that works legally.
Erica said:
Wow, this sounds so stressful. Can you use the dismissed assault charge against the daughter? IDK how that works legally.
That’s what I’m wondering too. I read that dismissed charges might not hold much weight, but IDK for sure. Anyone know?
Erica said:
Wow, this sounds so stressful. Can you use the dismissed assault charge against the daughter? IDK how that works legally.
I think dismissed charges can’t be used as proof of wrongdoing, but maybe they can show a pattern of behavior?
This is heartbreaking. Is there a way to get a new court-appointed supervisor instead of his daughter?
Yuna said:
This is heartbreaking. Is there a way to get a new court-appointed supervisor instead of his daughter?
We’d love that, but since Child Welfare closed the case, we’re representing ourselves now. It’s tough.
Yuna said:
This is heartbreaking. Is there a way to get a new court-appointed supervisor instead of his daughter?
Have you tried contacting a pro bono family lawyer? They might be able to guide you for free.
Can you remind the court that the bio dad living there violates the adoption agreement? That seems important.
Ophelia said:
Can you remind the court that the bio dad living there violates the adoption agreement? That seems important.
We’re definitely planning to bring that up! Just worried because the agreement is from 2019. Hope it still holds.
Ophelia said:
Can you remind the court that the bio dad living there violates the adoption agreement? That seems important.
Pretty sure court orders don’t expire unless there’s something stating otherwise. You should be good.
This poor kid. Is there any way to report the welfare fraud or the illegal stuff on their property?
Meech said:
This poor kid. Is there any way to report the welfare fraud or the illegal stuff on their property?
We’re looking into it. Not sure where to start with reporting the fraud though. Any tips?
Meech said:
This poor kid. Is there any way to report the welfare fraud or the illegal stuff on their property?
You can try calling your local welfare office or use an anonymous tip line if you’re worried about backlash.
The mental and physical abuse is awful. Can you use that as evidence to block any visits entirely?
Brady said:
The mental and physical abuse is awful. Can you use that as evidence to block any visits entirely?
We’re trying to compile all the evidence we can. It’s just hard without a lawyer. 
Brady said:
The mental and physical abuse is awful. Can you use that as evidence to block any visits entirely?
Totally get that. Maybe look into local advocacy groups? They might help with legal resources.