Why Adopt?
Lexington Adoption Attorneys
More and more families are now blended, and made up of children from other relationships. When multiple families combine after a new marriage it can create strong bonds between children and step-parents and step-siblings.
Completing a step-parent adoption can have many benefits, such as:
- Children's names can be changed to keep them synonymous with the rest of the family;
- Absentee parents cannot resurface later demanding visitation or custody;
- The intangible benefits of a legal relationship that matches the emotional bond of the household;
- Children can continue to reside in their household with their step-parent and siblings after the death of their natural parent;
Once a step-parent adoption is completed the step-parent will have the same rights and responsibilities as an actual biological parent. Even the child's birth certificate can be amended. We are able to assist families in obtaining a step-parent adoption in cases where the other parent consents, cannot be located or even attempts to challenge the process. Without the consent of the other parent generally the Court will require a showing that the other parent has abandoned the child, or has significantly abused the child or its sibling.
If you think that you might be interested in speaking with an adoption attorney to see if this process might be right for your family please contact the Law Office of James R. Snell, Jr., LLC, to discuss your case.