DIY Stepparent Adoption

Step-parent adoptions are the most common type of adoption filed in the United States. It is really simple to do and you can start the process yourself. Do it yourself step-parent adoptions are simple and you can pick up the forms at your local clerk of court.  

Do your Research

Research your state adoption laws. Most of the adoption laws are the same all over the United States but each state has its own little laws added in. Make sure you know your states laws before you start the process.

Contact the Courts

In many states, family courts handle adoption procedures. You can find out which office handles them in your state by asking at the clerk of court.

Paperwork

The court clerk will be able to answer any questions about what you will need to get your adoption proceedings started. You will need to fill out the proper forms. She can also help you with this part of the process by showing you the necessary forms and helping with any questions, you might have. Once you have completed the paperwork, submit it to the appropriate agency and pay the filing fee. The fee will vary from state to state. After the paperwork is filed you will be given a court date.

Adoption Hearing

At the adoption hearing, you must bring your petition along with a signed statement from the natural parent consenting to the adoption. If you do not have that then you need to bring evidence that the parent is not there to physically or financially take care of the child in question. At this hearing you will be given a date for a finalization hearing. It is at this final stage that the adoption certificates will be given.