If your spouse has a child from a previous relationship, after you get married it may feel like the next logical course of action would be to adopt your stepchild. Although this is one of the most common types of adoption in the United States, it can also be a confusing and complicated process, depending on the specifics of your situation. It will be very important, if you?re considering stepchild adoption, to look further into the laws in your state and consult legal counsel on the right course of action for your family. Here are a few essential things to know before you move forward with this decision.
State Laws on Stepparent Adoption Vary Greatly
States have many different requirements for stepparent adoption. Some states require home studies, some do not. Some require background checks, some do not. Some have a required minimum amount of marriage or time living together with the child, and some do not. Since adoption of a stepchild can happen for a variety of reasons?from simply a desire from all parties for family unity to an absent or unfit biological parent?the laws that surround the subject are just as varied. This means that, depending on your situation, different needs may apply. Be prepared for any and all of the above requirements, while also knowing you may not need any of them.
Consent Is Required
Getting consent from all necessary parties is often the most complicated and difficult part of the stepparent adoption process because consent is generally a non-...