Step-Parent Adoption

To adopt a step child you will most likely need an attorney that specializes in adoption and the consent of the biological parent because the process involves terminating their legal rights.

You may be one of the many birth parents who wants to have a new spouse adopt a child that is the product of a different relationship.  This type of adoption, called a step-parent adoption, is very common.  The information below will help you if you are thinking of an adoption by a step-parent.

If you have a child by one man and are now interested in having a different man adopt the child, this is a step-parent adoption.  This is different than having a blood relative adopt your child.  For a blood relative adoption please click on the link Adoption by a Relative.

Step-parent adoption is the most common type of adoption.  It usually does not require the involvement of an adoption agency but almost always involves an adoption attorney since such an adoption is a legal process.  It usually also requires the cooperation of the biological father or non-custodial parent since it is his rights that are going to be terminated. 

You may find the information provided in Child Welfare Information Gateway article "Stepparent Adoption" helpful.