Understanding the Legal Process of Stepparent Adoption in Ohio

Are you considering adopting your stepchild in Cincinnati, Ohio? It can be a life-changing and rewarding process, but it does come with specific legal steps and requirements.

At Wagner & Bloch, we understand how meaningful this decision is, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Our team of experienced stepparent adoption attorneys will help you with the legal complexities and we’ll work hard to make the process as smooth as possible. Let’s take a closer look at what stepparent adoption entails and the process.

Understanding Stepparent Adoption in Ohio

Stepparent adoption legally formalizes the bond between you and your spouse's child, granting you the same rights and responsibilities as a biological parent. In Ohio, this process permanently terminates the parental rights of the other biological parent (if applicable), meaning the stepparent assumes all legal rights and obligations including:

Inheritance Rights: Once the adoption is finalized, the child will have the same inheritance rights as a biological child. This means they are legally entitled to inherit from the stepparent's estate if the stepparent passes away without a will. However, Ohio law recognizes that specific terms in a will or estate plan could affect inheritance. If inheritance is a priority, a stepparent might consider updating their will to include their stepchild.

‍Custody Rights: The stepparent gains full legal rights as a parent, including custody rights. If the marriage to the child’s biological parent ends in divorce, the stepparent retains the right to seek custody or parenting time with the adopted child. However, a stepparent doesn't have an automatic right to these arrangements, as custody is based on the best interests of the child.

Child Support Responsibilities: If the stepparent and the biological parent divorce, the stepparent would have the same legal obligation to provide financial support (child support) for the child as if they were the biological parent.

Parental Decision-Making: The stepparent gains the right to make important decisions regarding the child's welfare, including medical care, education, and religious upbringing. This full parental authority is the same as that held by biological parents.

Legal Parent-Child Relationship: The adoption permanently severs the legal ties between the child and the other biological parent (the one not married to the stepparent). 

These legal responsibilities and rights remain in place even in the event of divorce or the death of the biological parent, making stepparent adoption a significant and lifelong commitment.

Requirements for Stepparent Adoption in Ohio

Petition for Adoption: The process begins by filing a petition for adoption in the appropriate court. The petition includes details about the stepparent, child, and biological parents​.

Consent from the Biological Parent: In most cases, the non-custodial biological parent must consent to the adoption. However, if that parent has not communicated with or supported the child for a period of time, their consent may not be required​. Our attorneys can guide you through this determination. 

Home Study: Typically the court will require a home study for adoption to make sure the child will be well taken care of. They also require a background check as a standard procedure in order to ensure the stepparent is fit to parent the child.

Finalization Hearing: After meeting all the requirements, a court hearing is scheduled where the judge reviews the case. If everything is in order and in the child’s best interest, the adoption is finalized, and a new birth certificate is issued with the stepparent listed as the legal parent.​

Why Choose Wagner & Bloch for Your Stepparent Adoption

At Wagner & Bloch, our team of experienced stepparent adoption attorneys has helped numerous families through the stepparent adoption process successfully. We take pride in providing personalized guidance, so your stepparent adoption is handled with care and professionalism. Our legal knowledge of Ohio adoption laws ensures that your case is built on a solid foundation, giving you peace of mind during and after the process.

Get Guidance for Your Family’s New Beginning

Are you ready to begin your stepparent adoption journey? Contact Wagner & Bloch today for a consultation. Our dedicated team of Cincinnati stepparent adoption attorneys is ready to support you, answer any questions, and help you take the next steps toward building your family.