Can stepparents adopt a child?

Yes, stepparents can adopt a child in California. Adoption is a legal process that permanently establishes the legal relationship between a parent and a child. California law allows for a stepparent to adopt a stepchild if the biological or legal parent is no longer the legal parent. In the case of a married couple, only one spouse is required to adopt the stepchild, but both must consent to the adoption. In most cases, the bio-parent must voluntarily terminate his or her parental rights in order for the stepparent to adopt. Depending on the circumstances, the bio-parent may be required to appear in court to do this. In addition to the biological parent terminating his or her parental rights, the stepparent must also meet certain criteria in order to adopt. First of all, the stepparent must be at least 18 years of age and must have resided with the child and the other parent for at least six months. The stepparent must also be a legal resident of the state of California and must have the financial and emotional means to provide for the child. The court may also require a home study and an interview with a social worker before granting adoption. During all of these steps, the best interests of the child must remain paramount. If the court finds all of the requirements for adoption have been met, the adoption will be granted.

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Can stepparents adopt a child?

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