How do I go about adopting my wife's daughter

Originally Posted By Mike SchullerI have raised my stepdaughter since she was 3 years oldnow she is almost 9 years old. I would like to adopther. Her biological father has never contacted her mom or her nor given a penny of support. He would like to give up rights so I can adopt. Can you help?

my husband and i would like him to adopt my daughter fiona also. he and i met when i was preganant with her, he has been taking care of her for 4 years now we have had other children together and we would really like to know how we can get this stuff started.fiona's father is in the army and half the time i can not get a hold of him he has said he would like my husband to adopt but then he changes his mind. he is no help at all. we raelly would like this to happen can any one help?:confused:

I see a lot of requests for help, but not any replies with answers on this thread. I too would like to request help adopting my wifes daughter. Has anyone gotten help or have any answers to the questions posted here??:confused:

[url="http://www.njlaws.com/private_adoption.htm"]http://www.njlaws.com/private_adoption.htm[/url]The most common example is a step father adopting his wife's child from a prior relationship. In these cases, a Complaint must be filed in the Superior Court by the person (plaintiff) who wishes to adopt the child. Visit that website it could provide you some answers. I am in search of the same answers you are. Good luck :)

Informed by a Kirsch and Kirsch Attorney its called "Step Parent Adoption", I can try to keep you guys up to date on the processes and what it takes, how much it costs. :)

I'm in the middle of a Step Parent adoption right now. Basically there are limited options. 1 - the best option - get the bio dad to sign his rights away. This is easiest. 2 - Take him to court to have his rights revoked. This is what we had to do. We hired a lawyer and I highly recommend it. The bio dad was served with papers, and he didn't respond, so he loses by default. We just had our home visit, and this whole thing should be wrapped up soon. Any specific questions, please feel free to ask. I'm no legal expert, but I can tell you what my personal experience has been.

I just got married and my husband has been caring for my 13yo for the last 6 years. Biological dad has never been present or financially supportive since she was 2. I recently changed her last name from his last name to mine (with bio dad's consent) about 4 years ago and am just beginning to explore the adoption process. I am nervous. May I ask how was the outcome and about how much in court and lawyer fees this cost you??