I have a 7 y/o daughter from a previous relationship my now husband of 1 year is interested in adopting my daughter. Her bio father has not seen her for 6 years and only pays child support when the agency sends him papers that further action is going to take place (once every 6 months or so). I know he would gladly sign over his rights, but my question is do we need a lawyer to file in Ohio? Are we able to go down to the courthouse ourselves and do the paperwork? We really don't have an unlimited supply of money to get in contact with a lawyer so any answers are greatly appreciated!

~Kelly~

You must have an attorney for adoption in Ohio.

Thank you, I did call an attorney earlier and he said it would be about 750.00 as long as NCP signs his rights over without a problem. He said it would be more if NCP contested it (which I doubt he would). Just wondering "step" mom what part of Ohio you were from. I am in NE Ohio and just by some slim chance if you are from around if you could suggest an attorney? I am clueless on how to pick em' the gentleman I spoke with earlier seemed bothered by my questions and you seem to know quit a bit about the laws so maybe you would know an attorney or know a guide, because weeding through the phone book to find a family law practice is a little overwhelming considering there are 4579876206870 entries. Thanks for all of your time and your abundance of information (I have read other replies from previous posts)

~Kelly~

lol abundance of information..... lol

Sorry I can't help you with any attorneys in your area but the fee mentioned seems more than reasonable for the service. You may want to check to make sure that isn't just a retainer and you may also want to check around. The court clerks in my area are usually very helpful when asked what attorney is usually successful in their cases.