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Steve W. Marsee, P.A. Orlando Divorce Attorney
  • Experienced DIVORCE ATTORNEY

Orlando Stepparent Relative Adoption Attorney

If you married someone who has children from a previous relationship and you have developed a bond with those kids, you may be thinking about legally adopting them. Adopting a stepchild shows that you are devoted to them and want to be an influential parental figure in their life. It also gives you the authority to make decisions about the child’s medical care, education, and religion.

However, adopting a stepchild comes with a lot of responsibility. There’s also a strict legal process involved. But if you’re ready to take your commitment to your spouse’s children to the next level, stepparent adoption is a good choice. Ready to get started? Orlando stepparent adoption attorney Steve W. Marsee, P.A. Attorney at Law can show you how to get the Final Judgment of Stepparent Adoption.

What is Required?

Not every stepmother or stepfather is qualified to legally adopt their stepchild. Here are some of Florida’s requirements:

  • The stepparent must file a petition for adoption with their spouse.
  • The biological father must consent to the adoption or there must be a reason why the biological father’s consent is not required.
  • The stepparent must be able to financially support the stepchild.
  • The stepparent must currently live in Florida.

Steps Involved

There are five main steps involved:

  1. Get consent. The non-custodial parent must give consent to the stepparent adoption. Sometimes consent can be waived. If that’s not the case in your situation, the other parent can oppose the adoption. If this happens to you, you will need to contact your lawyer for the next steps.
  2. File the adoption petition. The petitioner, or stepparent looking to adopt, must file a formal request called the Petition for Stepparent Adoption. This petition, along with other required documents, can be filed in the county where the petitioner lives or where their attorney is located.
  3. Schedule the final hearing. The petitioner finds out which judge is assigned to their case. They’ll need to work with their attorney and the judge to schedule a final hearing.
  4. Conduct the final hearing. The final hearing will be held with the judge. It is a friendly but formal meeting in which the judge will make a decision on the adoption. The process takes 10 minutes at the most and is often done virtually.
  5. Obtain an amended birth certificate. Once the adoption is finalized, you can get new birth certificates that show the name of the stepparent as well as the child’s new name, if applicable. Your lawyer can assist you with this.

Contact Us Today

Adoption is a way to legalize the relationship an adult has with their stepchild. Make sure you follow the steps involved.

Orlando stepparent adoption attorney Steve W. Marsee, P.A. Attorney at Law can guide you through the process from start to finish. We will make the process as seamless as possible. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling our office at 407-521-7171.

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