Naples Stepparent Adoption Attorney

Experienced & Compassionate Adoption Lawyers Serving Collier & Lee Counties

It is common for individuals to marry someone who is not the biological parent of their children. One issue that can arise is the desire of the new spouse to adopt their stepchild. Stepparent adoption can be beneficial to families where the child’s relationship with a noncustodial parent has deteriorated post-divorce or otherwise. On the other hand, such adoptions could turn out to be damaging to the relationship between a child and his or her noncustodial parent.

When considering if stepparent adoption is right for your child, turn to the trusted stepparent adoption attorneys at Family First Legal Group. We can answer any questions you may have, and walk you through the entire legal process.

Stepparent Adoption Guidance in Naples, FL

The process of stepparent adoption begins with evaluating the legal right of the stepparent to adopt. Most individuals in Florida are eligible to adopt their spouse’s child, as long as they do not have a handicap or disability that prevents them from being an effective parent.

Upon approval of eligibility, a stepparent needs to file a petition with the county court to gain permission for the adoption. Both the stepparent and his or her spouse must sign this petition. Also, the petitioner must submit all the necessary consents or acknowledgments that apply to the case. Florida statutes require that consent to adoption be obtained from the mother of a minor. Under certain conditions, a father’s consent must be obtained.

Consent from the father of a minor must be obtained if:

• The minor was conceived or born while the father was married to the mother
• The minor is the father’s child by adoption
• The minor has been established to be the father’s child by a court proceeding
• The father has filed an affidavit of paternity according to section 382.013(2)(c), Florida Statutes
• The father who was unmarried has acknowledged he is the father of the minor in compliance with the requirements of section 63.062(2), Florida Statutes

In some circumstances, the court may elect not to require consent for adoption. If you are attempting to proceed without consent, you will want to consult with an experienced stepchild adoption lawyer.

Expert Legal Support for Stepparent Adoptions in Collier and Lee County

When you are pursuing or contesting a stepparent adoption, it is important to know your rights. When you entrust your case to our Naples stepparent adoption attorneys, you can have the peace of mind that your case will be handled rightly.