McDonald v. Copperud

Peterson, Justice.

This is an appeal from a decree of adoption of a minor child, Troy, in Hennepin County District Court, Juvenile Division, over the objection of the child’s natural mother, appellant Michele M. Copperud. The appeal involves the propriety of a pre-adoption decree terminating the parental rights of Michele. We reverse and remand for a new trial.

Troy was born on July 5, 1963, to the marriage of Michele and respondent Rollo R. McDonald. The marriage was terminated by divorce January 13, 1965, in proceedings initiated by Rollo and uncontested by Michele. Rollo was awarded custody…