Pamela M. Pacetti Attorney at Law

Step-Parent Adoption

Fairfax, Virginia Step-Parent Adoption

A person wishing to adopt his or her spouse's child from a previous marriage or relationship can do so provided he or she has the consent of the child's biological parent. A parent who consents to a step-parent adoption permanently forfeits and severs his or her parental relationship with the child and is no longer entitled to custody or visitation rights. Any child support obligation of the biological parent is terminated once the adoption takes place.

In the event a biological parent refuses to provide consent, the step-parent, joined by his or her spouse can petition the court for a hearing. Your attorney will present evidence as to how the best interest of the child will be served by allowing the adoption. In cases where a child has an ongoing relationship with his or her biological parent, a court may be reluctant to approve the step-parent adoption.

For more information on how we can assist you, contact us to schedule a confidential consultation.

Pamela M. Pacetti
Attorney at Law
3919 Old Lee Highway, Suite 82-C
Fairfax, Virginia 22030
Telephone: 703-591-0056
Facsimile: 703-591-2443
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The Fairfax, Virginia Law Office of Pamela M. Pacetti represents clients in Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church, Vienna, Manassas, Great Falls, Oakton, Leesburg, Warrenton, Tysons Corner and Reston. We also provide representation in the Northern Virginia counties of Fairfax County, Arlington County, Loudoun County, Prince William County, and Stafford County.