Domestic partner adoption is an option for those who are in a committed relationship, but not legally married. This type of adoption allows both partners to become the legal parents to a child, giving each partner equal parental rights.
What Is Involved in Domestic Partner Adoption?
Domestic partner adoption requires a few legal steps to ensure that both partners are recognized as legal parents. First, depending on the state, a joint petition must be filed to authorize the adoption and establish that both partners consent. Second, a court hearing is held to review the adoption petition and officially finalize the adoption. Once a judge approves the adoption, the partner not biologically related to the child is legally considered a parent to the child – giving them the same rights and responsibilities of biological parents.
How Is Domestic Partner Adoption Different?
Domestic partner adoption is different from other types of adoption in that it involves more than one person legally claiming parental rights of a child. This type of adoption is also unique because it gives equal parental rights to couples who are in a long-term committed relationship, but not legally married. Domestic partner adoption is gradually becoming more popular as same sex couples are widely accepted, and civil unions become available in more states.
Understanding the Benefits of Domestic Partner Adoption
Domestic partner adoption allows both partners to have the same legal parental rights and obligations as biological parents. This gives the child protection under the law as well as medical, financial, and social security benefits. In addition, the adoptive parents can secure inheritance rights, welfare aid, and health or life insurance coverage. Domestic partner adoption can also simplify the process of filing taxes if the partners wish to do so jointly.
Final Thoughts on Domestic Partner Adoption
Domestic partner adoption is an increasingly common way for couples to become legal parents together. This type of adoption allows for both partners to be recognized as the legal parents, giving them the same rights and responsibilities as biological parents. It is an important step for many couples, and helps ensure that the child is protected by law, as well as provides them with essential medical, financial, and social security benefits.