A common story we hear is that of Laura. Laura is 12 years old and has lived with her mother and stepfather for as long as she can remember. She has younger siblings that are the biological children of her mother and stepfather. Laura has not had contact with her biological father in over six years, and calls her stepfather “Dad.” She is happy and comfortable in her home, but is troubled by the fact that she has a different last name than the rest of her family and is not the “legal” child of her “real” Dad – her stepfather.
Laura’s story is typical of families wanting to give legal legitimacy to an already-existing family bond.
Many step-parents end up raising their step-children because the natural parent has died, struggles with substance abuse or mental health, or because they have abused, abandoned, or neglected the child. Whatever the circumstances, many children are blessed to have their step-parents step up to provide love, support, and stability.
Perhaps you are a step-parent who has already been caring for your step-child for several months or years.
You have already been fulfilling that parental role, and you have taken on the financial and emotional responsibility for your step-child. What would a step-parent adoption change or accomplish?
First, it can bring permanency to your step-child’s life. Family circumstances can be ever-changing and unpredictable. A natural parent coming in and out of your step-child’s life can be emotionally damaging, especially if there are long, regular periods of no contact and no effort.
Children need stable relationships so that they can form healthy attachments in adulthood. When the adoption is finalized, you, the step-parent, are treated in every way, shape, and form as the adoptee’s parent. You will have the ability to keep your child safe – physically, mentally, and emotionally – and your child will know that your home is their home, permanently.
Adoption will also affect inheritance, insurance, and other benefits that can provide your child with the resources they need.
And finally, adoption will solemnize the loving, parent-child bond that you have already formed with your child, with all the legal protection and support you need.
The Adoption Law Firm can help guide you through this process. Contact Us today for more information!
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