my stepfather wants to adopt me, what are some pros and cons in the legal system?

emily974 · #1 Nov 4, 2007, 09:45 PM

I am a 20 year old step-daughter, and my mom and step-dad want for him to adopt me. My mothers health is not good (she has Hep C and other liver problems) and in all reality, she probably does not have much time left.
Call it paranoia, but I would like to know the legal differences of this action. Especially when it concerns wills, inheritance, ect.

Thanks in advance!

shygrneyzs · Nov 5, 2007, 01:37 AM

Your step father can write you in his will to inherit whatever he wants you to inherit. He can make you executor of his estate, you can inherit property and/or monies, etc.

Does he have natural heirs, such as children from a previous marriage/relationship? Or other relatives that would surface after his death? If he did adopt you, you would have some legal protection as an heir, should he die without a will.

My advice would be for him to make out a will. Wills are not a document set in stone forever - they can be amended by him. But it is an important document for him to create, with an attorney. Does your Mother have a will?



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