Adopting a stepchild is the most common form of adoption. A stepparent who adopts agrees to become the legal parent and be fully responsible for his or her spouse’s child. After the stepparent adoption occurs, the noncustodial parent (the parent not living with the child) no longer has any rights or responsibilities for the child, including child support.
In Massachusetts, stepparent adoption is a legal process that allows a stepparent to adopt their spouse's child, thereby assuming full legal responsibility for the child. This process requires the consent of both biological parents, unless the noncustodial parent's rights have been terminated due to reasons such as abandonment, unfitness, or failure to support the child. Once the adoption is finalized, the noncustodial parent loses all legal rights and responsibilities, including child support obligations. The process involves filing a petition for adoption in the probate or family court, followed by a series of legal steps including home studies and court hearings. It's important for stepparents considering adoption to consult with an attorney to navigate the legal requirements and ensure the best interests of the child are served.