Ex Parte B.F.

I respectfully dissent. Because the majority does not issue an opinion explaining the factual and procedural background of this case, I will briefly set out the facts and then explain why those facts and my understanding of the law applicable to this case compel me to dissent.

I. Facts and Procedural History

In October 1996, L.C. (“the birth mother”), who was not married at the time, gave birth to the child that is the subject of this controversy. The birth mother and her parents decided to put the baby up for adoption and, through an intermediary, met L.J. (“the adoptive mother”). On October…