Stepparent adoption makes up a significant portion of family adoptions in Illinois, and the process can be very meaningful for blended families. Stepparent adoption requires open conversations and a clear understanding of what it means for a stepparent to take on all the responsibilities and rights of a legal parent. If you are considering adopting your stepchild, talk to an experienced Wheaton, IL stepparent adoption attorney about the steps you will need to take and how having a legal representative can help.
Do I Need the Biological Parent’s Consent To Adopt My Stepchild?
Under Illinois law, a stepparent is categorized among those related to a child, but legally, the role is not the same as that of a biological parent. Adopting a stepchild requires an assessment of the biological parent’s role in the child’s life. Are they willing to terminate their parental rights, or does the court have grounds to remove them?