Stepparent Adoption

What Is Stepparent Adoption?

Stepparent adoption is common in blended families. Depending on the circumstances, it can be a fairly simple process - especially when the other biological parent agrees to the adoption.

This form of adoption creates a legal relationship between the stepparent and the child, providing the stepparent with the same legal rights and responsibilities as a biological parent. And, once the adoption is approved by the court, the adoption is permanent. This means that even if the stepparent and the biological parent were to divorce, the adoptive stepparent’s legal relationship with his or her stepchild would remain the same. In some cases, a child’s name may be changed to reflect the adoption.

We Can Assist Your Family In Processing An Adoption

The stepparent adoption process starts with filing a petition. If both biological parents consent to the adoption, the process is relatively simple and mainly consists of paperwork and a home study conducted by a person approved by the court. The family law attorneys at Wagner & Bloch helps clients draft all necessary documents to ensure a stepparent adoption is filed properly.

We can provide the knowledge and legal guidance necessary to facilitate the smoothest process possible.

If the other parent does not consent, however, the process becomes more complicated. Generally, the other parent must consent to the stepparent adoption; however, if he or she has committed certain actions, consent may not be required and the adoption can proceed without it. When necessary, our attorneys negotiate with biological parents to obtain their consent. We can also assist in locating a biological parent whose whereabouts is uncertain in order to receive his or her consent.

Whether the stepparent adoption is contested or uncontested, our attorneys can provide the knowledge and legal guidance necessary to facilitate the smoothest process possible regardless of the circumstances.

Formalize Family Bonds Today

Before filing a petition for adoption, both the biological parents and stepparents should be knowledgeable of their rights and responsibilities regarding the adoption. In addition to completing a significant amount of documentation to complete the adoption, parents will be required to appear at a final hearing before a judge to demonstrate that they are fully informed of and in agreement with the implications of the stepparent adoption.

While it may seem like there are major legal hurdles to overcome in the stepparent adoption process, adoptions are generally happy occasions that should be celebrated. If you are interested in learning more about a stepparent adoption, please contact our office today at 513-751-4420 and schedule a consultation so that we may assist you with the process. Our Ohio and Northern Kentucky family law attorneys can represent you in a wide range of family law matters, including child custody, child support, and stepparent adoption.