9 Things To Know Before Adopting Your Stepchild

Choosing to adopt your stepchild is a powerful act of love. It’s not just a legal process—it’s a commitment to be there, for life. At New Beginnings Family Law, we’ve helped many stepparents take this meaningful step, and we’re here to help you understand what lies ahead.

Here are nine key things to know before you begin:

1. Adoption Means Legal Parenthood

Once the adoption is finalized, you’ll have the same legal rights and responsibilities as a biological parent. This includes decision-making, custody, inheritance, and everything in between.

2. You’ll Need To Terminate One Parent’s Rights

The adoption can’t proceed unless the rights of the other biological parent are legally terminated. This can be done through voluntary consent or, in some cases, through a court process based on abandonment or unfitness.

3. Consent Simplifies The Process

If the other parent agrees to the adoption, the process is much smoother. We’ll handle the necessary filings and guide everyone through the steps toward the final hearing.

4. No Consent? It’s Still Possible

If the other parent is absent, uninvolved, or cannot be located, we can petition the court to proceed without consent. The court will evaluate whether the termination of parental rights is in the child’s best interest.

5. The Child May Have A Say

In Alabama, if the child is 14 or older, they must provide written consent to the adoption. We’ll help ensure this is done correctly and respectfully.

6. Home Studies Are Now Required But Are Streamlined For Step-Parent Adoptions

Due to recent changes in the law, home studies are now required in every adoption case, including step-parent and close relative adoptions. However, the process is streamlined and not as thorough as a private or unrelated adoption.

7. You’ll Attend A Final Hearing

Once everything is in place, you’ll attend a final adoption hearing—often a joyful, celebratory moment for families. Many courts even allow family photos to mark the occasion.

8. Your Child’s Name Can Be Changed

If you choose, your stepchild’s last name can be changed as part of the adoption. We’ll make sure this is included in your court documents.

9. You Need An Experienced Attorney

Even straightforward cases can have unexpected twists. Having an attorney who’s familiar with family law in Alabama ensures that every detail is handled and your rights are protected.

A New Chapter Begins Here

Adopting your stepchild is a profound gesture of love and unity. At New Beginnings Family Law, we consider it a privilege to guide you through such an important moment. Let’s make it official—together.

New Life. New Direction. New Beginnings.