Smith v. Tisdal

ROBERTSON, Judge.

Pauline A. Smith (Pauline) brings this appeal from the denial of her Motion for Relief From Judgment, seeking to set aside the adoption of her daughter, Donna Tisdal (Donna).

We reverse.

The facts necessary for resolution of this appeal are as follows: Donna was originally adopted within a few days of her birth in 1974 by Pauline and her husband at that time, Donald Tisdal (Donald). Donna, born and adopted in Alaska, is an Aleut Indian. Pauline is also an Aleut.

Upon Pauline and Donald's divorce in 1977, Donald was awarded custody of Donna. Pauline had limited visitation rights…