Many people never expect to adopt a child during their lifetime, but sometimes you marry into a family and know that adopting your stepchildren is the right thing to do. If you find yourself in this position, you may need to gather a lot of information before you can proceed. To help you through the process, here are a few common questions stepparents have.

A Brief Guide to Adopting a Stepchild

What Is the Benefit of Adopting a Stepchild?

In many families, a stepparent plays all the roles of a biological parent, and there is little social distinction between one or the other. Stepparents and stepchildren may love and cherish one another, and adoption is a way to celebrate and legalize the relationship they have developed. Once adoption is finalized, a stepparent will be legally responsible for the child and may make legal decisions concerning the child, such as choices regarding medical care and education.

Does the Child Need to Consent?

It's always important that a child's desires and wishes are represented in family matters, and adoption is no exception. If you're adopting a child who is 14 years of age or older, you must acquire written consent for the adoption. Absent this consent, the process cannot advance. 

What Are the Basic Requirements of Adoption?

In order to adopt a stepchild in Georgia, you must first meet all the state's basic requirements to adopt a child. These include Georgia residency; proof of cohabitation with your spouse; and the ability to care for the child physically, mentally, and financially. Additionally, you must be at least 10 years older than the child you are adopting. 

What Happens With the Other Party's Parental Rights?

Unfortunately, a child in Georgia may only legally have two parents, which often means that in order to adopt a stepchild with two living parents, the absent parent must give up their legal status as parent to the child. This can happen voluntarily, or the state can revoke this status through the courts. These rights include visitation, child support, and the ability to make legal decisions regarding the child. These rights must be terminated before you can complete the adoption process. In the case that one of the child's parents is deceased, no such measures are necessary.

When you're preparing to adopt your stepchild, reach out to Hildebrand Law Office PC in Lafayette, GA. For over 20 years, these legal professionals have helped bring families together, whether or not everyone is biologically related. Learn more about their services online, and call (706) 638-6009 for a consultation.