Decatur, AL asked in Adoption and Child Custody for Alabama

Q: I have legal temp custody of my stepdaughter. Both of her biological parents are not actively involved. Can I adopt

Do I have to terminate the rights of both parents to adopt or can I terminate one. How long should I wait? Its already been two years.

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1 Lawyer Answer
Mr. James Parrish Coleman
Mr. James Parrish Coleman
Answered
  • Divorce Lawyer
  • Robertsdale, AL

A: You don't have to terminate to adopt, but it is often the best way to go. You can show in the Probate Court that the parents have abandoned the child. Two years is plenty. DOn't wait any longer. Either file a petition to adopt without the consent of the parents, or file a Petition in Juvenile to terminate their rights. After that's done, wait out the 14 day time for the order to become final and then file for an adoption.

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