Legal Guidance For San Diego Stepparent Adoptions
Last updated on August 5, 2024
As a stepparent, you’ve likely spent years raising your stepchild as your own. Maybe now you’re finally considering taking the next step: adoption. Formally adopting your stepchild is a big decision to make, but one that can bring your family even closer together.
At Leigh K. Galyon, APC, we represent families throughout San Diego County in these complex adoption cases, and we have the skills and experience necessary to guide you through the process toward a successful adoption.
Understanding Stepparent Adoptions In California
Why should you adopt your stepchild? While you may take care of your stepchild like they’re your own, stepparents do not have the same rights as a birth or legal parent. By formally adopting your stepchild, you will gain the rights and responsibilities a legal parent has, including being able to make major decisions for the child’s upbringing.
Stepparent adoption isn’t easy. There are important steps to follow to ensure a smooth process and transition of parental rights. Our firm will take the time to carefully prepare you for the adoption process, including:
- Completing paperwork
- Getting consent
- Passing the adoption investigation
- Attending the court hearing
It’s natural to feel overwhelmed as you navigate this journey. We will work closely with you to ensure your confidence as you move forward. Attorney Leigh K. Galyon is a board-certified family law specialist with over 20 years of experience in handling family law cases. She is willing to fight on your behalf for the future of your family.
Do You Need Consent From The Birth Parents For Adoption?
Seeking consent from the other biological parent is generally the rule of thumb when pursuing a stepparent adoption. In many cases, the biological parent will agree to the adoption, meaning they’re willingly giving up their parental rights and custody of the child.
If, however, the biological parent does not give consent, the court may step in to terminate the rights of the parent and allow the adoption to move forward. In order to do so, the stepparent and custodial parent may need to prove:
- The other parent is unfit
- The other parent abandoned the child
- The other parent is not actually a biological parent
The court may also allow an adoption to proceed without consent in cases such as if the other parent has died, their whereabouts are unknown or they have signed a waiver indicating they do not want to be involved with the adoption.
Contact A Trusted California Adoption Attorney Today
Stepparent adoption can be a complex and often emotional process. You deserve the support of an experienced attorney on your side to navigate the necessary steps with confidence. Our firm will take the lead to help you achieve a positive outcome.
Call us today at 619-573-6125 to discuss your case further. Or us send an email through the online form.