When considering adopting a step-child, many people are afraid that the process will be lengthy, time-consuming, and expensive. They may be surprised to find out just how easy and affordable our adoption attorneys can help make the step-parent adoption process. If you are considering adopting a step-child, you should consult with an adoption attorney before beginning the process. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Stephen Howard.
While the step-parent adoption process is simpler than many other kinds of adoptions in Utah, the process is still sufficiently complex that having a good attorney is well worthwhile. Before a court will let a step-parent adopt, you must receive clearance from the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification through the Department of Public Safety. A step-parent must also be cleared through the Utah Child Abuse Registry by the Division of Child and Family Services. The court must also determine that you meet a variety of other legal requirements for a step-parent adoption in Utah.
In step-parent adoptions where one biological parent is deceased, consent is only needed from the remaining biological parent (i.e., your spouse). But in cases where both biological parents are still alive, either you will need to obtain the consent from the other biological parent, or you will have to petition the court to terminate the parental rights of that parent. Either way, our attorneys are ready to help.
Our attorneys work closely with you to ensure that all of the necessary paperwork is prepared quickly and efficiently. We guide you through the adoption process from the first initial paperwork through the final court hearing so that you can focus your time and energy on more important things — like being a parent.
Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation with Stephen Howard and let us help you begin the adoption process. We are pleased to provide adoption-related legal services to clients in Salt Lake, Davis, and Weber Counties, and throughout Utah.