Over 20 years ago, Annick and her husband sold their old house in Sarthe and bought a new one in Perpignan. They put the property in the name of their adoptive daughter, Valerie. During the legal process, the notary overlooked the couple's lifelong residency rights. A subsequent amendment to rectify this was contested by Valerie, who accused her parents of forging signatures. She demanded they vacate the property so she could sell it.

The case garnered significant attention in Perpignan after being reported by French media on 20/9.

Annick and her husband, having no biological children, adopted Valerie and Dominique. They raised Valerie with love and care after finding her abandoned in a ditch.

Annick and her husband with their adopted son at their home. Photo: _6parknews_

They never anticipated a six-year legal battle with their beloved daughter. The stress and heartbreak led to Annick's illness and paralysis. Her husband, Yves, shouldered the burden of her care while attending numerous court hearings.

Their adopted son, Dominique, supported his father with legal proceedings, cared for his ailing mother, and provided emotional support to the family.

Valerie last saw her adoptive parents on 8/2/2019, in the Perpignan courtroom. Annick, frail and in a wheelchair, was met with silence as Valerie entered, avoiding eye contact. Throughout the proceedings, Valerie sat in a corner, her only statement a demand for her parents' eviction.

In early 2025, the court of appeals ruled in favor of the eviction. According to regulations, if they didn't leave voluntarily, they would be forcibly removed by police and placed in a nursing home.

At the height of their despair, Governor Pierre Regnault de la Motte intervened, reviewing the case file. "I don't understand why the court authorized forced removal in this situation. I've decided to rescind the eviction order and will not use force," he stated, citing human rights as his justification.

This means that, during the governor's term, Annick and her husband will not be forced to leave their home.

"This case finally shows some wisdom and compassion," their lawyer commented, adding that they would continue to pursue legal action against Valerie for her ingratitude.

Valerie retains the right to appeal the governor's decision.

Nhat Minh (_mgronline/6parknews_)