Step-Parent Adoption Lawyer in Riverside

Step-Parent Adoption Law in California

When families combine, one spouse often wants to adopt the children of the other spouse. In most states, this type of adoption is not as difficult as other types of adoption, but the legal process can still be complicated. For example, the other birth parent will have to give consent to the adoption. By doing so, they are giving up all of their parental rights. However, if you can prove abandonment, that the other parent is unfit, or establish that they are not in fact biologically related, their rights could be terminated. Also, in California, it is legal for same-sex partners to adopt the other's children using the step-parent adoption procedure.

According to the Judicial Branch of California, there are certain steps that must happen in order to finalize a step-parent adoption. First, court forms will have to be filled out correctly and reviewed. There should be at least two copies made of these forms before you file them with the court clerk. If there is another birth parent, they will have to give permission to consent to the adoption. A home study may be necessary, including an interview with an investigator. Lastly, a court date will be set and you will attend the adoption hearing.

Why hire a Riverside step-parent adoption attorney?

Due to the numerous complications that could arise during a step-parent adoption, having an experienced attorney on your side could prove to be invaluable. A Riverside divorce lawyer could walk with your through the entire process and help diminish the time the adoption takes to be settled. Our team at Hanson, Gorian & Bradford is committed to helping families through this step.

To learn more, contact a Riverside step-parent adoption lawyer as soon as possible.