Consulting an attorney is the first step in pursuing stepparent adoption. Once they have heard the details of the case, they can determine how the adoption laws in your state apply to your situation. The next step is obtaining consent either from the birth parent, court, or the child. Step parent adoption attorneys handle adoption and child custody cases every day and each case
has its own specific demands and circumstances.
Role Of Attorneys In Step Parent Adoption:
- Depending on your state, both parents may need to give consent for the process. Your state may have special circumstances that render the non-custodial parent's consent as unnecessary.
- Law firms contact the respective court that deals with adoptions in your county and get information on stepparent adoptions.
- Legal attorneys would help you figure out the kind of representation you need, whether a home study is required, and what forms are needed to be filled for the adoption.
- You can consult your lawyer to complete and file the legal forms followed by waiting for a court date.
- The judge questions all parties involved during the hearing.
- A date will be set to finalize the adoption and a certificate will be issued after it is finalized.
Once you have legally adopted the child, the law firm will get you the amended birth certificate and the necessary step child adoption papers that show you as a parent.
