Florida Grandparent/Relative Adoption Lawyer
One of the most common forms of adoption is stepparent adoption. In this process, a stepparent adopts a spouse's child, strengthening the bond between the two and giving the stepparent legal rights. When this type of adoption takes place, the birth parent who does not live with the child no longer has responsibility for the minor.
My name is Faith Z. Lodder. A full-service family law attorney, I am dedicated to helping families find stability and strength through stepparent adoptions. Visit my office in Sarasota to learn more about this type of adoption and how I can help make your adoption a success.
Benefits of Stepparent Adoption
There are many reasons a stepparent would want to adopt his or her spouse's child. It gives the stepparent authority to:
- Pick the child up from school
- Make medical decisions
- Sign legal documents
In addition to granting legal and physical custody, this type of adoption can also give the new family a greater sense of togetherness.
Termination of Parental Rights
Stepparent adoptions are common when the non-custodial birth parent has little or no contact with the child. If this parent is still alive, he or she must agree to terminate his or her parental rights. After the adoption is completed, that biological parent will have no parental rights or responsibilities, including child support obligations.
Many stepparent adoptions are non-confrontational. Much of the time, the non-custodial parent realizes the adoption is in the child's best interest and consents to the action. However, if this individual opposes the adoption, I can help you show the court that parent is unfit due to drug use, abusive behavior, long periods of absence or other reasons. If the court determines he or she is unfit, parental rights may be terminated involuntarily.
Cementing Family Relationships
Stepparent adoptions are a cause for celebration. To speak with a Sarasota stepparent adoption attorney, contact me online or call 941-328-8170 or 877-217-7197.
My office is located in the Dooley Mack building. Office hours are 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. For your convenience, evening and weekend appointments are available upon request.
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