Representing Stepparents

Stepparent adoptions have become extremely common in the U.S. However, because the parental rights of the other biological parent must first be terminated, the process can be challenging. To make sure the adoption proceeds smoothly, you want to work with a knowledgeable family law attorney.

I have represented many clients in stepparent adoptions. I have the extensive knowledge and skill you need for these types of adoptions.

When Can a Stepparent Adopt?
Stepparent adoptions sometimes occur when parents are divorced or estranged and one parent decides to remarry. When a stepparent wishes to establish legal rights to a child, the estranged biological parent's rights must be terminated. We can draft a voluntary relinquishment of parental rights for him or her to sign. If the biological parent will not sign the voluntary agreement, we can file a suit for termination of his or her parental rights.

The court must agree that the termination of the biological parent's rights and granting the stepparent's request for adoption are in the best interest of the child before the adoption can move forward.

The court may grant an adoption in situations such as:

Concern for the child's welfare
A parent unfit due to substance or child abuse
A parent in jail, deceased or otherwise unavailable
We represent stepparents who wish to adopt a child. Adoptions can be difficult cases; talk to me to determine your rights today.