Question:

Adopting a Step-Child?

by  |  earlier

0 LIKES UnLike

I am a canadian living in Ontario and i am married to an American who has full custody of his 11 year old daughter and they both currently reside in Southern California for the time being. I would like to adopt my step-daughter and was wondering if anyone has an experience with this and if so, how long does the process take approx.?

Further info on the situation with my step-daughter...

She has lived with her father since she was 1 years old, hasn't seen her biological mother in over 5 years. Has no contact with her at all.

 Tags:

   Report
Answer The Question I've Same Question Too

6 ANSWERS

Sort By: Date  |  Rating

  1. How much contact she hasnt had with her mom does not matter you should still ask HER if she wants you to adopt her or not. 11 years old she knows whether she does or not.

    It shouldnt take very long at all and all can be handled through an attorney.

    Best of luck!


  2. Before you can adopt you have to have the mother of the child give up her parental rights.  Even is she is not in the child's life she still has some parental rights, so unless she gives up ALL rights then the child cannot be adopted by anyone.

    Good luck!

  3. congratulations

  4. I have heard it takes a little over a year. And you have to meet the requirements that a foster mother would have to.

    Your house, income, health and all have to be looked at, thats if you wanted to adopt a child.

    Now you say you are married to this guy? Well then no problem, you are considered her mother already. If it is ok with him, move her in. unless laws are diff in Canada...

    good luck!

  5. It all depends on if the birth mother is willing to relinquish her parental rights or not.  She doesn't have to.  But it sounds like she might be willing to, especially if it is what the child wants.  Make sure it is or you are in for some family trouble.  If all is good, it shouldn't take more than a month or two for the attorney to draw it up and get it signed by a judge.  Good Luck.

  6. Read over this site for information.

    http://step-child.adoption.com/

    I think it's wonderful what you plan on doing. I hope it all works out well for your new family :)
You're reading: Adopting a Step-Child?

Question Stats

Latest activity: earlier.
This question has 6 answers.

BECOME A GUIDE

Share your knowledge and help people by answering questions.
Register Now