Stepparent Adoption

Over half the adoptions that take place in the United States each year involve stepparents adopting their stepchildren. This usually helps to provide the child additional stability and permanency and helps to strengthen life-long bonds between parent and child. Most states provide for a streamlined adoption process when stepparents chose to adopt their stepchildren. In many cases, a streamlined homestudy is allowed.

Stepparent adoption has no less impact on the child than other types of adoption since it separates the child legally from one biological parent and that parent's family. Grandparent visitation may also be a consideration and provisions can be included in the adoption process.

More on Adopting Your Stepchild