In Re the Adoption of C.J.H.

This appeal involves an adoption proceeding held in the Thirteenth Judicial District, Yellowstone County. Robert Kimpton, the stepfather of three minor children, filed a petition for their adoption. The children’s natural father, Warren Hoffman, did not consent. Following trial the Court entered its decree of adoption terminating the natural father’s parental rights. He appeals. We affirm.

The issues before us are:

1. Did the District Court act within its discretion when it granted the Petition for Adoption and terminated the natural father’s rights?

2. Is § 40-8-lll(l)(a)(v), MCA,…