Stepchild Adoption Checklist for Your NJ Adoption
When you’re starting the process of adopting a stepchild, there are a number of things to think about and decisions to make.
Here’s a checklist of some of the steps to take and things you’ll want to consider:
If you’re adopting a stepchild, you must have the other biological parent’s written consent to the adoption or go through a complicated process to terminate the biological parent’s rights.
In NJ, the biological parent will no longer be responsible for paying child support for the child after the adoption. In every respect, you become the legal parent and guardian to your stepchild… They now become your son or daughter. You can’t later change your mind. Does this affect your decision to adopt?
If you’re adopting an older stepchild, talk it over carefully with the child and make sure you have the child’s consent. Older children have real and often strong feelings. Be sure you talk it out and you’re both comfortable with the decision.
Fredrick P. Niemann Esq.
Do you have questions about stepchild adoption in New Jersey? If so, contact Fredrick P. Niemann, Esq.
toll-free at (855) 376-5291 or fniemann@hnlawfirm.com
to schedule a consultation about your particular needs. He welcomes your calls and inquiries and you’ll find him easy to talk to and very approachable.
Written by Fredrick P. Niemann, Esq. of Hanlon Niemann & Wright, a Freehold, New Jersey, Monmouth County Adoption Attorney