Experienced Stepparent Adoption Representation
Your decision to adopt your stepchild can be a critical turning point for your family and your relationship with your stepchild. You can assume the same parental rights and responsibilities as any other parent. However, the process may require the termination of your stepchild’s biological parent’s rights.
The Law Office of Gary J. Natale P.C., offers family law services in Newark, New Jersey, and across Essex County. As a single-lawyer firm, I can give you the personalized attention and compassionate consideration you require while going through a major transition that forever changes your family dynamics. Contact an attorney today.
Understanding The Benefits Of Stepparent Adoption
Adopting your stepchild can strengthen your family in addition to granting you parental rights and responsibilities. You can share custody of your stepchild if you divorce or maintain custody if your spouse dies.
You can make legal decisions about their education, travel and medical care. Your stepchild gains legal inheritance rights and access to critical employment or government benefits that your children might enjoy.
Are You Eligible For A Stepparent Adoption?
You must be legally married to your stepchild’s parent. You also need to be 18 years or older and at least ten years older than your stepchild. You must pass a background check and be a New Jersey resident.
Whose Consent Is Required?
If your stepchild is ten or older, they must give their consent. The courts must agree that the adoption is in the child’s best interests. You also need the consent of the other parent.
The other parent can sign a Voluntary Surrender of Parental Rights form if they agree to the adoption. If they do not, you must pursue an involuntary termination of parental rights.
Generally, you need to show that the other parent has abused or neglected the child, has substance abuse issues that they won’t treat, has abandoned the child or has a conviction for a major criminal offense. You may need assistance as you attempt to locate an absent parent.
Experienced And Compassionate Stepparent Adoption Support
Let me put my more than 33 years of experience to work for your family! Talk to a lawyer by reaching out to The Law Office of Gary J. Natale P.C., today. Call 973-821-4199 or click here to schedule a consultation.