Posted by Lisa Stradinger on June 18, 2002 at 08:14:33:
My husband and I have been married for 5 years and have been together for a total of 7 years. I have an 8 yr. old daughter from a previous relationship who believes my husband is her father. Her biological father is not on the birth certificate and has never declared paternity.
He chose not to be apart of our lives after she was born.
I have not seen or heard from him since she was one month old. I do know he was incarcerated for 3 yrs on the charge of criminal sexual conduct - Third degree (multiple variables, 750.520D) In fact, I do believe he took a plea aggreement in order to serve less time.
We are now in the process of legally changing her last name to my married name, she currently holds my maiden name. We wish to terminate the biological father's rights, so my Husband can legally adopt her.
We are afraid of taking the next step. I do not know if we should just leave well enough alone, or take the chance. I do not want him in her life, he made the decision long ago to leave us. My husband is the only person my daughter knows as her father and is going to be quite upset when we tell her the truth.
I would appreciate it if anyone could offer some advice. I live in the state of Michigan, and of course have contacted a few attorneys for legal advice, but I haven't found one who cares to spare a moment to find out all the facts.
Thank You,
Lisa