I am frequently asked by stepparents what is involved in
adopting their spouse's child. The process is often quite
simple, and brings a sense of wholeness and belonging to the child
and family.
How does this all work?
There are two instances where the adoption of a stepchild is
considered uncontested and can move easily through the court
system.
- The first is where the child's
other biological parent is deceased. In this situation, there is no
one with rights to contest the adoption.
- The second is when the other
biological parent signs a surrender form, relinquishing the child
to be adopted by the stepparent. The surrender form requires only
that the other biological parent sign the form in the presence of
two witnesses and a notary public. After the form is signed, the
other biological parent's role in the adoption process ends
– he or she does not need to appear in Court or get involved
in the adoption in any other way.
