The Towler’s Win!!

We took a huge step forward on Friday when the judge ruled in our favor.  The court found that we had established clear and convincing evidence that good cause existed to deviate from the preferences set forth in Indian Child Welfare Act.  The court was clear that good cause was established by the “unified voice” of the birth parents, the preference of the birth parents and what was in the best interest of Ashlyn.

Alicia and I are could not come up with a better way to end the year!!!  While this is huge hurdle, the process is not over.  The Cherokee’s have 20 days in which to file an appeal.

We are obviously thrilled and overcome with joy.  We can’t thank everyone that has been at our side over the past 14 months enough.  Our family, our friends and our community have been unbelievable.  For the first time in over a year there were tears of joy in our house.

Again, this process will not be complete until we receive the formal adoption decree.  With this victory, however, we took a major step toward that goal.  We’ll continue to post updates as we find out whether or not there will be an appeal, the timing of final decree or any other happenings.