What is a step-parent adoption?

Step-parent adoption is a process in which a step-parent legally becomes the parent of their step-child through adoption. In Washington, step-parent adoption typically requires the court to terminate the parental rights of the biological parent and establish a new legal parent-child relationship between the step-parent and their step-child. Step-parent adoption follows the same legal process as other adoptions, and requires specific forms and an adoption hearing. In Washington, the prospective adoptive parent files a petition for adoption. The court may require a home study as part of the process in some cases. All of the individuals involved in the adoption must also be present for the adoption hearing. The court will then enter a Decree of Adoption and the step-parent will then become the new legal parent of the child. Once the adoption process is complete, the adoption cannot be reversed, and the step-parent is just as responsible for the child as a biological parent would be. The step-parent can make decisions about the child’s health care, education and religion, and has the right to custody, visitation, and inheritance rights. In Washington, step-parent adoptions occur fairly regularly, so it is important to make sure you understand the process and have the necessary forms and documents in order.

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What is a step-parent adoption?

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