I usually read here a lot, I haven't written for a long time, rarely comment but today I am writing because I need help.
I was not my daughter’s biological father but have been my daughter’s dad since she was 10 months. She bit my finger right as she was teething and wouldn’t let go, so I bit her finger. Silly me. It was the day I started bonding to her. I am not going to go through the details of my relationship or marriage of her mother besides the fact she ruined my life and hers but continues to be disillusional (since divorced).
I am my daughter’s dad for all intensive purposes. I have stayed in her life visiting her every week or two so she knew some one cared. I was a consultant and worked out of state most of time but I always came home to see my little baby. She has lived with me exclusively for almost the last two years.She is still my little baby, 15 years old 5”10’ and taller than me, built like a linebacker, but still my baby. I love her immensely, not sure what the difference would be if she had been my biological kid. She is all I have to keep my emotional thread to the real world where I have something to look forward too, every morning and evening as I am driving home, my reason for being human. A little dramatic I am sure but that is the truth. I always give her a hug and kiss her good night, my favorite time of the day, regardless of how the rest of it has gone.
I have a full time notarized Guardianship for the last 2 years from her mom (Her dad has never been involved in her life). I am the only parent she has for the last two years. I am not the greatest parent I am sure, but I love her and take care of her. Her mom hasn’t called her in almost 3 months.
I got a job in Europe (have a Euro Passport) but I can’t take my daughter without consent of both parents or consent of one parent and an avadavit from one of the parents (her mother) that she does not know the whereabouts of the dad. Initially she agreed to it, including claiming it would be a good experience for her (my daughter). So I presumed she would just sign the papers after I sent her the money she would need to get it notarized and get a Apostille from the state. But she took my money and never did anything. Hasn’t responded and won’t call me back. It’s been 2 weeks now and I am supposed to move in 2 weeks.
I live in WA state. What are my choices? I have called 5 family lawyers but none wants to take my case, (I suppose it is a lost cause). I don’t want feel helpless but that’s where I am right now. I hate doing this but I feel like this whole thing is hopeless. I have no Plan B.
