Step Parent Adoption Lawyers in Tennessee

Nashville Stepparent Adoption Attorneys

There is a special bond between a child and a parent. But sometimes that bond can be felt by a parent that is not biologically related to the child. If a parent’s spouse wishes to adopt a child, there are essential steps that must be taken to make this dream a reality, and it must be done correctly with little to no conflict. The Nashville family lawyers at MHPS have helped families across Tennessee with the stepparent adoption process. We understand the legal issues you may be facing in the adoption process and will guide you through the steps to make your family whole.

Family meets with step parent adoption lawyers in Nashville

Dad after stepchild adoption in Tennessee

The Adoption Process

Stepparent adoption follows the same legal process as a traditional adoption with only a few minor exceptions. According to Tennessee law, a traditional adoption process includes a six-month waiting period after filing before it’s made final. During that time, a home study is required for the adopting parents, to make sure the home is suitable for the child. However, in the case of a stepparent adoption, the waiting period and home study can be waived in some instances since the court considers the matter to be a relative adoption. That means there is the assumption that the child has already spent time with the stepparent and a parent-child relationship is already present. Once the court finalizes the adoption, the legal relationship can begin. At this time, the birth certificate can change, the child can change his/her last name, and the stepparent will have all the legal rights and obligations of the child.

When The Biological Parent Doesn’t Consent

There are times when the biological parent may not consent to the termination of his/her rights. When this occurs, grounds for termination must be proven for the adoption to proceed.

According to Tennessee law, grounds for termination of parental rights can include one of the following:

The parent abandons the child.
The parent is not complying with the statement of responsibilities in a permanency plan or a plan of care.
The child had been removed from the home by court order for six months because of the conditions of the house; the likelihood the conditions will be remedied; the continuation of the relationship is not in the child’s best interest.
The parent committed severe child abuse against the child, the child’s sibling, or another child living in the home.
Imprisonment for more than two years for conduct against the child.
The parent receives a prison sentence of 10 or more years, and the child is under the age of 8.
The parent was convicted or found liable for the intentional and wrongful death of the other parent.
A court had found the parent incompetent to provide further care of the child.

Not only does evidence need to be established, but you must show that terminating the biological parent’s rights is in the best interest of the child. Parental rights must be terminated in order to proceed with the adoption.

Family after meeting with a step parent adoption attorney

Contact Our Nashville Stepparent Adoption Lawyers

Although you may already consider yourself your stepchild’s parent, you still need to take the necessary steps to be recognized under the law. Understanding the process and with a helping hand is the only way to adopt the child successfully.

At MHPS, we know what needs to be done to make sure the process goes smoothly and have a successful solution. If you are considering adopting, we encourage you to contact us today to schedule a free consultation to learn your legal options.