Adopting a child or gaining custody is about more than paperwork—it’s about ensuring the child’s best interests. You’ll need to demonstrate your ability to provide a safe, stable, and loving environment. The process often involves legal steps like terminating the biological parents’ rights, and may require a court hearing. If a biological parent does not consent, the court will review the case and make a determination based on what’s best for the child.
Stepparent adoption follows a similar path. You must file a petition with the court, complete the required paperwork and background checks, and address the other parent’s rights. If they consent, the process is smoother; if not, adoption can still move forward if their parental rights are legally terminated. Stepparent adoption helps formalize the parent-child relationship and ensures full legal protections for your family.