Options other than Adoption for Step Parents
Adoption is only one of the ways a step-parent can acquire parental responsibilities and rights towards a step-child.
Adoption is not the only way a step-parent can obtain parental responsibility for their step-child.
A step family relationship can be formalised without adoption having to occur.
There are a few options available to a step-parent other than actually adopting the step-child.
Other options include:
- The step-parent obtaining a Parenting Order from the Court in relation to the step-child;
- Changing the step-child’s Surname
- Inheritance Rights for the step-child being specified in the step-parent’s Will.
Sometimes it is not appropriate for a step-child to be adopted.
More is explained in our separate information sheet about when a step-parent may be able to adopt their step-child.
It can also be difficult for a step-parent to obtain an adoption order for their step-child.
In those circumstances the step-parent can formalise their relationship with their step-child by using one or more of these alternate options.
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Other Pages in the Adoption Section
- When can a Step Parent adopt their Step Child
- How do I get Family Court leave to commence Adoption proceedings
- Alternatives for Step Parents to Adoption
- How a Step parent gets a Parenting Order for a Step Child
- When can a Will provide for Inheritance by & Guardianship of a Step Child
- How to adopt a Child from Overseas
- How are Adopted Parents selected by authorities
- What is a Final Adoption Order & how do I get one
