How Long Does Stepparent Adoption Take?
Stepparent adoption is any situation in which a person becomes a legal parent for his or her spouse’s child. This is a process that provides legal security for individuals who are not related to a child biologically. Step parent adoption in Oklahoma is a bit different than other types of adoptions. This is why it is important that you hire an experienced lawyer with Lisa R. Howard P.L.L.C.
Stepparent Adoption Process
The process of adoption is legally similar to other types of adoptions in some ways. Stepparent adoptions do require background checks, birth parent consent, and legal finalization. Different measures may need to be taken to meet these requirements depending on the state in which you reside.
With stepparent adoptions, some of the required steps of traditional adoption can be waived or shortened. For instance, you may not be required to undergo home study.
In some cases, you may also choose to represent yourself legally instead of hiring an Oklahoma adoption attorney. However, it is highly recommended that you do seek out representation to make sure that the process goes accordingly.
Furthermore, the child’s other biological parent may need to give up his or her rights in order for a stepparent adoption to proceed. If your spouse and the other parent were in fact married, or if the other parent is involved in the child’s life, consent is could be needed from the noncustodial parent. There are many instances where the noncustodial parent doesn’t need to consent to the adoption.
There are even some cases in which the child has gone without contact and support from the absent biological parent for a number of years. In these instances, the absent parent can be treated by the court under the law as their consent not being needed. The child’s best interests takes priority when it comes to deciding about continuity of parenting and other support for the child.
How Long Does the Adoption Process Take?
The Oklahoma step parent adoption process will vary depending upon various facts in your case. For example, in cases where all parties are willing and able to sign consents, the process can be completed in as little as a few months. There are also some instances where the absent parent is not being cooperative. In such cases, the process can take much longer.
Fees will vary depending on the attorney used. Typically, they are billed at an hourly rate at the time when services are completed. We offer payment plans in all of our cases and provide all families with a list of expected costs up front.
How an Attorney Can Help
Step parent adoption Oklahoma is challenging enough when done on its own. This is why it is important that you hire an experienced Oklahoma stepparent adoption attorney. There are many things that could go wrong. For example, a parent may refuse to cooperate or consent. An experienced adoption lawyer can educate you on the specific laws in your state. They can also help guide you through the adoption process.
An attorney is recommended if you plan to pursue adopting your stepchild, or something similar in nature. Furthermore, if you need help asserting your rights, an attorney can assist you with that as well.
Final Word
Prior to beginning the OKC stepparent adoption process, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
- Every state has unique laws when it comes to stepparent adoption. Make sure that you are familiar with the state’s specific requirements before you even begin the process.
- If Oklahoma City stepparent adoption is not an option for you, there may still be additional measures you can take to provide some legal security for your child. There are documents you can use as wills for financial stability if you need to establish guardianship instead of adopting.