Do You Need A Lawyer For Step-Parent Adoption?
Legal consequences of a step-parent adoption
Adopting a stepchild is a significant life decision. If the biological parents divorce, the step-parents will be entitled to the same parental rights and financial obligations as the biological parents. The step-parent may also have to raise a substantial part of the child. Although these legal implications are significant, it is worth taking your time to decide whether adopting a stepchild is the right decision for your family.
The first step in adopting a stepchild is to file a petition in the appropriate court. Once the court grants consent, the adoption can proceed. Depending on the circumstances, the court may order home studies and interviews to determine if the stepparent is a suitable parent. Unlike a standard adoption, a stepparent adoption does not require child protective services to be involved. Once the court approves the adoption, the stepparent replaces the absent parent's name on the child's birth certificate.
While a stepparent adoption process is easier than a standard adoption, it is still essential to work with an attorney who can guide you through the process. An attorney can ensure that all court paperwork is properly filled out. A lawyer can also represent the stepparent in a petition to terminate the biological parent's parental rights.
If you need an Adoption Lawyer, please call this law firm for a free consultation.
Ascent Law LLC
8833 S Redwood Road Suite C
West Jordan UT 84088
(801) 676-5506
Comments
Post a Comment