Justia Family Law Opinion Summaries

Appellants Jason and Christy Vaughn appeal the judgment against them from the Court of Appeals that dismissed their application for writ of habeas corpus to compel the biological father of their prospective adopted child to return custody of her. The appellate court dismissed Appellants' petition on the grounds that it "lacked jurisdiction over child custody decisions and proceedings" of the lower court. The Supreme Court found that the Court of Appeals indeed had general subject-matter jurisdiction over Appellants' habeas corpus petition, but still affirms its holding. The Court disagreed with the appellate court over the rationale for dismissing Appellants' petition. The Court found that dismissal of the habeas corpus petition was appropriate because Appellants did not comply with the pleading requirements in accordance with state procedure.