Step-parent adoptions are a beautiful way to unify non-traditional families. In many cases, before the adoption process begins, step-parents have already acted as important caregivers throughout the child’s life. In Ohio, the step-parent adoption process can be relatively simple if certain base requirements are met. If you are considering adopting your spouse’s child, there are a few important factors to keep in mind.

What to Know About Adopting a Step-Child

1. Step-Parent Adoptions Are Permanent

Even if a couple divorces following a step-parent adoption, the step-parent is still financially responsible for the child by law and is still considered the child’s legal parent. 

2. The Child’s Other Biological Parent Must Consent to the Adoption

In most cases, the child’s other biological parent is notified of the pending step-parent adoption and offers his or her consent in writing. This effectively terminates their rights to the child. When consent cannot be obtained through traditional means, a biological parent’s rights can still be terminated if that parent has failed to communicate with or financially support the child for one year preceding the filing for adoption. In those cases, the step-parent adoption may proceed without consent from the other biological parent. A court makes the final determination as to whether the other biological parent has failed to meet these requirements.

3. Consent Is the Main Issue Facing Step-Parent Adoptions

Ideally, consent should be pursued prior to filing for a step-parent adoption. To avoid a disrupted adoption, it is important to either obtain consent from the other biological parent or establish, by clear and convincing evidence, that the parent has failed to maintain support of the child as required by law. 

4. Each Ohio County Has Different Step-Parent Adoption Requirements

If you are working with an adoption agency, they will guide you through the process and make sure your county’s laws are followed.

5. All Step-Parent Adoptions Require a Step-Parent Homestudy

These homestudies are less involved than those required in non-relative adoptions. Most adoption agencies will provide step-parent homestudy services for you at a fixed rate. These involve visits from a licensed social worker as well as a thorough background check. 

6. It Is a Good Idea to Hire a Lawyer

An attorney can help file the Petition for Step-Parent Adoption. Should complications arise with either consent or filing, a lawyer can also provide much-needed support and peace of mind. 

7. The Other Biological Parent’s Rights Will Be Terminated 

After a step-parent adoption is finalized, the other biological parent has no legal right to visit the child and is not obligated to support the child in any way. The child’s “new” parents may determine the extent to which the other biological parent remains involved in the child’s life. 

8. The Child Will Receive a New Birth Certificate

Once adopted by their step-parent, the child receives a new birth certificate that includes the step-parent’s name. If the family chooses, the child’s last name may also be changed.

If you are seeking to adopt a step-child, Private Adoption Services in Hamilton County will help guide you through the process. Serving families across the country since 1997, this private agency offers homestudy, placement, and post-placement services. For more information about step-parent adoptions, call Private Adoption Services at (513) 871-5777 or visit their website.