adoption or custody

February 23, 2003

My step sister, fiance and I are discussing them having a child for him and I, beings I am unable to have any children. We have already discussed all possible questions and situations between us. She has 5 children, and knows how much I would like to be a mother. Her 2 youngest are over almost every weekend while she works, and the older ones call for rides or just to hang out. We only live 4 blocks away.

My question is this: If my fiance is the birth father and she signs over rights, do I have to adopt the child or can she sign over custody? If she signs over custody to us what does that make me, adoptive mom or guardian?

Any help would be greatful.

lucyjoy

February 23, 2003

I'm not a legal expert, but I have had some experience with this.

You need to adopt the child. Otherwise, the sister has rights to the child which might be fine now, but could be a problem later. She would have more rights to your child then you.