A step parent may adopt their step children only in the situation where the other biological parent has given up the rights to the child or has passed away. For example, if a woman has two children and she remarries then the new husband and step dad will only be able to adopt the step children if the biological father gives up his parental rights or is no longer alive. Also, there are some situations where a step parent may adopt a step child even without the consent of the biological parent if that parent has not had contact with the child for some period of time as well as other reasons. The biological parent married to the step parent must give consent and in many cases the child, if at the age of consent, must also sign off on the adoption. Adoption is never easy and adopting ones step children can be a challenge as well. The first thing you will need to do is talk about the adoption with your spouse and the child. Find out how the entire family feels about the adoption and if the child really likes the idea as well. Remember that this will impact the childs life so make his opinion on the subject the most important. After everyone has agreed that adoption by the step parent is a good plan you will need to speak with an adoption lawyer in your state who is aware of the protocol for step parents adopting step children. Gather all the necessary information and prepare for some challenges along the way especially if the biological parent does not give consent despite not taking part in the childs life. A step parent wanting to adopt a step child is a very special thing indeed. Although it can take a lot of effort, time, and money, if it is something that means a lot to you and the step child then keep working at it. Eventually the adoption will take place and the new family can live happily ever after.

Posted in Parenting

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