It is very common for stepparents in combined families to think about adopting a stepchild in order to obtain enforceable parental rights. If a stepparent in Arizona wants to adopt a stepchild, the biological parent must first relinquish his or her parental rights. When biological parents consent to this type of adoption, they can voluntarily terminate their parental rights. In extreme circumstances, parental rights can sometimes be involuntarily terminated.
Any stepparent in Arizona looking to adopt a stepchild should contact an Arizona family law attorney to discuss their circumstances. To speak with JacksonWhite’s Arizona family law attorney about adopting stepchildren, call (480) 779-7972.