Step-parent and partner adoption

An application to adopt a child needs to be very carefully considered. The affects of an adoption order will last throughout the child’s life and affect any children he/she may have as an adult. Adoption is the single most drastic order a court can make concerning a child. It is the only order that terminates irrevocably the parental responsibility for a birth child and ends existing legal relationships and court orders.

If you are the partner of a birth parent you can apply to adopt the birth parents’ child.  You can do so as a couple with the birth parent or individually.  You will need to demonstrate that you have an enduring relationship with the child’s birth parent.

You will need to discuss adoption with a social worker before making an application to court. Please ring the Kent Contact and Assessment Service on 08458 247 247.  Explain to them that you are interested in step-parent/partner adoption, give your details and a request will be made for an adoption social worker to contact you.

Alternatives to adoption:

A residence order

The court will want to know that a residence order has been considered first. A residence order states who a child should live with and gives parental responsibility to that person. Parental responsibility would then be shared with others who already have it, i.e. the birth mother and the birth father (if he has it). Having parental responsibility gives you the power to share in making decisions about a child’s future with others who have it. A residence order usually ends when the child is 18 years old.

Becoming a guardian

The step-parent/partner could be made the guardian of a child. This only takes effect on the death of the birth mother, and only then if no one else with parental responsibility is still alive.

Parental responsibility

A step parent who is married to the birth parent or partner in a civil partnership with the resident birth parent can obtain parental responsibility through a written agreement lodged with the court.