Navigating The Joyful Milestone Of Adoption
Adoption of your significant other’s child is one of the most joyful steps you can take. As a stepparent or parent figure, you likely already have a meaningful role in the child’s life. Taking the legal step of formal adoption solidifies the role in a legal sense and establishes important rights and responsibilities. Children benefit from these formalities too when they are able to have this relationship legally recognized, as well as receiving support and inheritance rights from an adopting parent.
At Meridian Family Law, we love helping clients through the adoption process. We work through each step to ensure an accurate and positive adoption experience. On the finalization day, we share in your happiness when the formal adoption confirms your relationship as parent. Our lawyers have experience with Washington family law to provide knowledgeable guidance each step of the way.
Stepparent Adoptions
Adopting a stepchild is one of the most wonderful gifts you can give them (and yourself). We strive to ensure that the process goes smoothly. Generally speaking, there are two types of stepparent adoptions:
- Uncontested adoptions: This occurs when there is only one current legal parent, or the other legal parent agrees to voluntarily terminate their parental rights. These proceedings are usually simpler and faster.
- Contested adoptions: This involves seeking an involuntary termination of the parental rights of a parent who is unfit to continue as the parent. These proceedings must meet a very high legal standard and are often lengthy and difficult.
Our lawyers focus on uncontested adoptions, and we can refer you to other attorneys if you require a contested adoption.
