Stepparent Adoptions

California Stepparent Adoption Lawyers

For many people, a stepchild is no different from their own. They love the child the same, care for the child, and only want what is best for the future. For families where the stepparent is one of the primary caregivers, adoption is the most logical and natural choice.

If you would like to adopt a step child, or if another parent is threatening to terminate your parental rights, please visit Kearney Baker, in Pasadena, California. We have more than 25 years of experience handling termination of parental rights and stepparent adoption cases. Let us help you; contact us today.

The Adoption Process

Stepparent adoption is a fairly simple process if both the biological father and mother consent to it. The stepparent must file a petition to adopt a stepchild. A county representative then interviews the custodial and adopting parent and makes a recommendation as to whether the adoption should proceed. The representative will also discuss the issue with the other biological parent, and will handle the consent process, moving the adoption forward.

If one parent does not consent to the adoption, however, the process is much more complex. A county representative may make a recommendation for adoption, pending the termination of parental rights. This requires filing a separate case and going to trial to generate a judgment.

An experienced attorney at our firm can help you file a petition for adoption and a separate parental rights case, if necessary. We will guide you through the adoption process, ensuring the best interest of the child is protected along the way.

Contact Us Today

Discuss stepparent adoption in an initial consultation with an attorney at Kearney Baker. For your convenience, you may complete our online consultation form.