Knoxville, Tennessee, Adoption Lawyers
The creation of a family is a joyous occasion. Whether through birth, adoption or marriage, the addition of children into a stable and caring family environment is something to celebrate. At The Law Offices of Thomas M. Parker and Stanley F. LaDuke, when it comes to providing services for stepparent and relative adoptions, our lawyers take great pleasure in assisting parents.
Whether you are a stepparent or an aunt, uncle, grandparent or other relative wanting to adopt, contact us to schedule an appointment. We offer a low $50.00 consultation fee for family law matters.
Understanding the Adoption Process
Stepparent adoption is a simple process for you —the stepparent — and your spouse— the birth parent — and it can be so very meaningful to your child. Usually, no home study is required. You do not have to jump through as many hoops. Relative adoptions may require additional steps, and each family situation is assessed individually. Our firm can answer your questions about the process and help you understand your involvement.
A stepparent adoption will require that the non-custodial parent relinquish his or her legal rights to the child, by consent or by termination. Many non-custodial parents who have little or no involvement in the life of their child are willing to do so. Some wish to free themselves of child support payments; others believe it is in the best interest of their child to have the full security of the stable parent-child relationship with the stepparent who is currently providing for the child. Some non-involved parents even sign as co-petitioner to show their support to the adoption. Others have simply vanished.
The Parent-Child Relationship
When a child is adopted by a stepparent or relative, you and the child gain all the legal benefits of a parent-child relationship. Our attorneys provide adoption services that bring families together so you can enjoy the following:
- The child's right to inherit equally with the parent's other children
- The child's right to Social Security should the stepparent or relative die
- The child may take the same last name as the parents
- You may make medical, educational, legal and child-rearing decisions for the child
Importantly, the child gains a permanent sense of security, belonging and love that lasts beyond age 18.
Contact an attorney to arrange your consultation to discuss a stepparent or relative adoption.
