In Re Adoption of Lauren D.

Victor D., the biological father of the minor children Lauren, Carr and Christiana, appeals from the family court order terminating his parental rights to allow David A., the stepfather, to adopt the children. Victor contends there was insufficient evidence he left the children or that he intended to abandon his children, there was insufficient evidence that terminating his parental rights was in his children's best interests, the trial court committed reversible error by failing to interview Lauren regarding her preferences and by failing to consider appointing counsel for the minor children and that the Sacramento County Superior Court erred in proceeding on this matter because there was an ongoing custody order in the Yolo County Superior Court. On this last point, we agree. Because the matter is jurisdictional, we shall reverse and need not reach Victor's other contentions.

In September 2001, the Yolo County Superior Court entered a dissolution of marriage between Jill and Victor. On September 14, 2001, the Yolo County Superior Court entered judgment on reserved issues. Among other things, this judgment awarded Jill sole legal and physical custody of the minor…