Being a parent is a beautiful experience for most people, but parenting does not look the same for everyone. Stepparents are a significant part of our society. Stepparents often play a vital role in a child’s life. Stepparents provide love and support for children, but they do not necessarily have the same rights as a birth parent does. However, stepparents can choose to adopt their stepchildren. When you need a Simi Valley stepparent adoption attorney, you can count on the Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch to be by your side.
The Simi Valley stepparent adoption process
If you have chosen to solidify your role in your stepchild’s life, you must understand how the process works in California. The first step is to get the other parent’s consent or terminate that person’s parental rights.
- Children in California can only have two legal parents. That is why the other parent is required to give up their legal rights to their child completely.
If the other parent is willing to give up their legal rights, the process will go more smoothly. However, that is only sometimes the case.
If the other parent refuses to consent, you must take a different route. This is where an experienced Simi Valley stepparent adoption lawyer will be able to help you. By working with your spouse and your attorney, you can work to terminate the other birth parent’s rights by showing:
- They have abandoned the child (have not provided any financial support or been in contact with them).
- They are an unfit parent due to mental illness, addiction, or a history of neglect and abuse.
- That the previous paternity assumption was not correct.
Stepparent adoption is more accessible than traditional adoption, but that does not mean it is without hurdles. The child’s other parent could put up a fight in the court. Do not let that deter you from the joy of being able to call your stepchild your child.
Your attorney will work to ensure that all required paperwork is filled out correctly and completely. Your attorney will help you prepare for a home visit and any investigations and represent you at the adoption hearing.
- The California Department of Social Services will handle the home visit and investigation.
We are ready to get to work
If you are a stepparent and are considering adopting your stepchild, please seek legal assistance as soon as possible. At The Law Offices of Ronald K. Stitch, we want to make sure this process goes as smoothly as possible for you. Many issues to consider and care for require working through the family court system. Our family law specialists will ensure everything is done correctly. If you need a Simi Valley stepparent adoption lawyer, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling 818-707-0202.
