Arizona has a simple but direct process for adopting a stepchild. You have to be married to a biological parent and you also have to live with them and the child. You need to be a US citizen and it helps to have the consent of the other biological parent. There are several things you have to get done as well including a background check. However, the process is not as difficult as regular adoption.
Regular adoption requires a much more thorough process that takes a lot of time and money. When you are adopting a stepchild, for example, you do not have to have the home study completed. This is when a licensed individual comes to your house, reviews your financial documents, the residence and more, makes sure everything is in order and provides their recommendation on whether or not you are fit to adopt the child.
Thankfully, many of these steps are usually waved during this process. However, there are some that may be required either at the request of the court or the other parent, especially if they are not in agreement with this decision. It’s easier to adopt your stepchild with the consent of both biological parents, but you actually only need one.
Be Married To A Biological Parent
In Arizona, you need to be married to a biological parent for one year before you can adopt a stepchild. This would need to be verified with a marriage license. You will also need to share a residence with the parent and child. There are other regulations that you need to meet in order to qualify for adoption eligibility.
One thing to keep in mind during this process is that you will have to not only submit to a background check, but your personal finances may be put under review. This is a common step in the adoption process but can be waived if it involves a stepchild. This step is meant to ensure that the child will be financially provided for.
The Adoption Process
Once you meet with an attorney they can walk you through all the steps including what to expect. One of the best things to do is take some time to ask your attorney about each step, what you may need to do or what to expect as far as resistance from your former partner.
Once you and your attorney complete the proper forms, they are filed with the court. The court will notify the biological parent if they have not shown that they consent to this change already. If the other parent wishes to argue against this change they may do so in court before a judge. This is where you will have to be ready with your reasons and proof for the change. Your attorney will help you prepare for this step if it is required. You may also want to utilize your attorney to manage communication during this time with your former partner.
Hire An Attorney
Family law attorneys who specialize in annulments, divorces, modifications and adoption offer free consultations where you are given the opportunity to share your situation and ask questions. There is no requirement to hire the attorney and most attorneys prefer this method because it also allows them to identify who is going to be the right type of client for them.
If you are considering making this change and you want your new partner to adopt your child you need to be prepared for any legal difficulties that may come with this. The child’s actual birth certificate will be changed if this request passes and that can impact their inheritance as well. Speak to your attorney about the options but also what this means legally for your child.
What This Change Means For The Child
The child will not have three people with parental rights assigned to them. Arizona only allows two people to have those rights over a child. If you are wishing for your new partner to take over that role, it can have an impact on the child’s long-term finances and legal options. This includes matters of inheritance, benefits including insurance and more.
Communication With The Other Parent
Again, if you are looking into adopting your stepchild or having your new partner as a primary parent for your child then you need to consider the communication with the former panther. If you are on good terms and they will agree to this then that is fine. However, if you are confident they will not appreciate the news and wish to keep your distance, going through the attorney is always the best route.