Stepparent adoption has become the most common type of adoption. The majority of families today are either remarried or re-coupled, leaving many children in the loving care of stepparents. In fact, statistics show that each day approximately 1,300 new stepfamilies are created. Following remarriage, many stepparents seek to adopt their new spouse’s children. Stepparent adoptions offer a fantastic way to establish a legal link between the stepparent and the child.
Stepparent adoptions are more streamlined than other forms of adoption and can be completed quickly and at minimal cost. However, there are still issues to consider and some stepparent adoptions will be complex. All stepparents will have many questions at the start of the adoption process. The following is a look at some of the most frequently asked questions by potential adoptive stepparents. An adoption attorney will be able to advise you further and complete the process.
How do I get started with a stepparent adoption?
The first step will be consulting with an attorney knowledgeable in the field. Your attorney will explain the process, which begins with the filing of a petition for adoption. The petition will include all of your basic information and that of your stepchild. You must include the name and contact information for any other parties with a claim to legal custody of the child, which will usually include the other biological parent. You should attach a written consent to adopt to the petition.
Do I need the consent of the absent biological parent?
You will likely have no issue obtaining a consent to adopt from your spouse, but what about your stepchild’s other biological parent? You must obtain consent to adopt from both biological parents, unless there is a basis for terminating the non-consenting parent’s parental rights.
A stepparent adoption will proceed far smoother if you can obtain the consent of the other biological parent. However, sometimes this parent cannot be located or refuses to consent. This complicates the process but does not make it impossible. When the parent will not consent , you will need to seek the termination of their parental rights.
There are several grounds for termination, including abandonment of the child, mental deficiency or emotional illness, felony conviction and imprisonment, and more. Your attorney will guide you through the process of obtaining a termination of parental rights so that your adoption can move forward.
How long does the stepparent adoption process take?
The stepparent adoption process is generally far faster than an adoption agency adoption so long we both parents consent. The process can often be completed within 45 days when consent is given.
Does my stepchild need to consent?
Sometimes children will have strong options about the adoption. If your stepchild is over the age of 13, he or she must consent to the adoption. Younger children might be asked for their opinions as to the adoption. Help your stepchild become comfortable with the idea so that they welcome the adoption enthusiastically and look forward to it in the same manner you do.
McDowell Chartered: Assisting You Through Your Stepparent Adoption
Adoption can be a wonderful option for many stepparents. The Kansas Adoption Attorneys at McDowell Chartered have assisted countless Kansas families through the stepparent adoption process. We will examine your individual situation in order to walk you through the stepparent adoption process in a swift and cost efficient manner. With our help, you can rest assured that your stepchild has a permanent legal bond to you. Call McDowell Chartered today at (316) 633-4322 for an initial consultation.