In many states, stepparent adoption is much easier to achieve than other forms of adoption. As it turns out, several stages in the transaction may be waived or simplified. For example, the home study, waiting period, and adoption hearing are sometimes exempt in a stepparent adoption. Generally, the most problematic aspect is obtaining consent for the adoption from the other birth parent. The following are several common issues stepparents may come across throughout the adoption process:
Getting Consent.