Why Adopt a Stepchild?

Stepparent adoption describes any situation in which someone becomes a legal parent for his or her spouse’s child. This process provides legal security for parents who are not biologically related to a child.
The following information will detail the stepparent adoption process, the ways it differs from other adoptions, and the importance of having legal custody of your spouse’s child.

Do I Need to Adopt My Stepchild?

You may be wondering if it is necessary for you to go through the process of a formal adoption, especially if you already play a parental role in your child’s life. Stepparent adoption means that role will also be recognized in the eyes of the law.
Stepparent adoption is an important legal step and offers many benefits for your family, including:

• Financial benefits – Having legal custody will entitle your child to your inheritance and allow him or her to receive insurance benefits
• Feelings of permanence – From an emotional standpoint, legalizing your adoption provides a sense of finality and stability for your entire family, especially the child.
• Recognition as a parent – Many tasks, such as doctor’s appointments, obtaining medical records, and even picking your child up from school are made easier when you are a legal parent.

In recent years, same-sex couples have also been able to obtain parental rights through stepparent adoption procedures. The laws surrounding same-sex adoption vary from state to state and are changing over time, so if this applies to you, speak to an adoption attorney about your options.
In all cases, the legal process of stepparent adoption provides an element of stability that is crucial for you, your child, and your family as a whole.

How Does Stepparent Adoption Work?

The legal process of adoption is similar to other adoptions in that it requires background checks, birth parent consent, and legal finalization. Depending on your situation and the state where you live, you may need to take different measures to meet some of these requirements.

Differences in the Adoption Process

A traditional adoption is often a lengthy process involving many steps. In a stepparent adoption, some of these steps can potentially be shortened or waived completely. For example, you may not be required to complete a home study, or your home study may not be as extensive.
Another possible difference arises if you are adopting an older child; in most states, older children must consent to adoption by a stepparent. If your child is old enough to consent to the adoption, he or she will do so at your preliminary court hearing.
Finally, in some cases, you may choose to legally represent yourself instead of hiring a lawyer. However, it is recommended that you seek out legal guidance to ensure that the process is carried out correctly.

Birth Parent Consent

Your child’s other biological parent (the noncustodial parent) may need to relinquish his or her rights in order for a stepparent adoption to move forward. If your spouse and the other parent were married, or if the other parent is actively involved in the child’s life, consent will be required from the noncustodial parent.
In instances where the noncustodial parent is not involved in the child’s life, consent may not be required. If the parent is absent, for example, his or her rights can be terminated without explicit consent. If the parent refuses to relinquish his or her rights, you may need to take extra steps to continue with your adoption. Speak with an adoption attorney for guidance through your specific situation.

Final Thoughts on Stepparent Adoptions

Before you begin the process of legally adopting your stepchild, here are a few considerations:

• As with all adoptions, each state has unique laws when it comes to stepparent adoption. Be sure to understand your state’s specific requirements before you begin the process.
• If stepparent adoption is not an option for you for any reason, there are still measures you can take to provide some legal security for your child. You can establish guardianship in place of adopting, and you can use documents such as wills for financial stability.