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View Full Version : How do I adopt niece if no one disputes it


ddkkcc18
Jun 11, 2009, 11:38 PM
My stepsister has custody of her half sisters child. My stepsister has cancer and for the last 4 years I have raised the now eleven year old. She wants me to adopt her and both my stepsister and the child's biological mother agree that it would be best for the child. What do I need to do? Unfortunately, all of us are not capable of expensive attorneys, but if it is the only way, then I will gladly find the resources. I live in Oklahoma. Please help.

Synnen
Jun 12, 2009, 05:04 AM
Find out who the biological father is, and get him to sign away his parental rights voluntarily.

Since the biological mother is willing to sign away rights voluntarily, that's one step easier.

I really do recommend a family law attorney for any adoption. There are too many I's to dot and t's to cross for adoption, and missing one little thing could invalidate the adoption. Get a lawyer who is familiar with adoption law so you don't have to worry about the adoption being overturned later.