father not around

[countrymom]

I was wondering if anyone could help me. My son is 6 months old and his biological father has seen him once last week and now wont answer the phone. I am getting married in december to a guy i have been with since last december. we want him to adopt my son but dont know if his father has to grant permission. please help. it is not in my sons best interest for his father to come around.

[CheekyChops]

Your sons father does have to give his permission for your new boyfriend to adopt him.

[plowter]

You could proceed with adoption without the birth parent's permission, but you would have to apply to court and show there were exceptional circumstances (for example, no contact for years, danger to yourself or children).

The adoption process would involve checks on the suitability of your new partner and the strength of your relationship.

For general info see the links for
Adoption Information Line or

British Association for Adoption & Fostering