What is a step-parent adoption?

A step-parent adoption is a form of adoption where one stepparent takes legal responsibility for a stepchild. This is one of the most common types of adoptions in New York. In this type of adoption, the stepparent applies to the court for an adoption order. The court will typically consider the relationship between the stepparent and stepchild, the best interests of the child, and any existing relationships the child has with other family members. Once the court approves the adoption, the stepchild will become legally the child of the stepparent with all the rights and responsibilities of a biological parent. This includes the right to inherit, the right to make medical decisions, the responsibility of paying child support, and other parental rights. The step-parent adoption process is different than an Agency adoption. In a step-parent adoption, the biological parent of the child gives up his or her legal rights as a parent and the stepparent legally becomes the parent. In an Agency adoption, on the other hand, the parental rights of the biological parents are terminated by the court. Step-parent adoption in New York is a fairly straightforward process and usually only requires the consent of both the stepparent and the biological parent. Once the adoptive parent has completed the necessary paperwork and paid the court fees, the adoption can go smoothly.

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What is a step-parent adoption?

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