Can I Adopt my Stepchildren in Tennessee?

Adopting a stepchild is a beautiful way to strengthen your family bond and gain full parental rights. However, the legal requirements in Tennessee can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. At Behrmann Law, we’re here to simplify the process and help ensure everything goes smoothly, protecting your family’s future every step of the way.

Understanding Stepchild Adoption in Tennessee

In Tennessee, stepchild adoption provides a legal framework that grants a stepparent the same rights and responsibilities as a biological parent. This process not only offers emotional security but also provides legal authority over the child’s education, healthcare, and other major decisions.

Requirements for Stepchild Adoption in Tennessee

To adopt your stepchild in Tennessee, there are specific legal steps you need to follow:

• Consent from the Biological Parent: If the child’s other biological parent is still alive, they must voluntarily relinquish their parental rights. In cases where consent isn’t given, the court may terminate the parent’s rights based on grounds like abandonment (e.g., no contact or child support for at least four months).

• Marriage Requirement: Tennessee law requires that the stepparent be legally married to the child’s biological parent to pursue adoption. Tennessee does not permit second-parent adoptions for unmarried individuals.

• Child’s Consent: If the child is 14 years or older, they must provide a written, sworn statement of consent to the adoption. Although not required for younger children, the court may still consider their wishes.

• Waiver of Waiting Period and Home Study: Stepparent adoptions often qualify for a waiver of the typical six-month waiting period and home study since the child has already been living with the stepparent. However, the court may still require a home study under certain circumstances if it deems it necessary.

Benefits of Stepchild Adoption

• Legal Parental Rights: You gain full authority to make critical decisions regarding the child’s upbringing.

• Inheritance Rights: Adopted children receive the same inheritance rights as biological children, ensuring they are fully integrated into your family.

• Emotional Stability: Adoption offers children a sense of security, knowing they are part of a stable family unit.

• Termination of Support Obligations: Once the adoption is finalized, the other biological parent’s obligations for child support are legally ended (though unpaid support obligations may still be collected)​

Take the Next Step Toward Adoption Today 

At Behrmann Law, we make adopting your stepchild as easy as possible. Our team handles all the paperwork to avoid delays and makes sure everything is filed correctly. We also help you get consent from the biological parent, or if needed, guide you through the process of ending their parental rights. When it’s time for court, we’ll make sure you feel prepared and ready to answer any questions. If unexpected problems come up, we’ll be there to protect your rights and work hard to get the best outcome for you and your family.

Adopting your stepchildren is a meaningful way to solidify your family. With Behrmann Law by your side, you can move through the legal process with confidence and ease. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced adoption attorney in Roan Mountain, TN, and let us help you create a brighter future for your family.