Step Parent Adoption

Couples often ask about the ability for a step-parent to adopt a child. Often one spouse has a child from a previous relationship and the other parent is no longer in the picture. When the new spouse adopts the child, the step-parent gains legal rights over the child and the biological parent's rights are terminated. A petition must be filed with the court to approve the adoption. If everyone consents, including the natural parent whose rights will be terminated, then the step-parent adoption is usually approved. Sometimes couples have a difficult time locating an absentee parent to get their consent. Couples may be able to get around this requirement if it can be shown that the absentee parent has abandoned their child or if they've failed to respond to a consent for adoption.