Kallemeyn & Kallemeyn Law Firm has provided strong representation and support to Minnesota families navigating issues related to divorce, adoption, custody and other legal issues related to family law. Our legal team has deep knowledge of family law in Minnesota. One important aspect of family law in Minnesota is step parent adoption. Kallemeyn & Kallemeyn is a trusted and experienced contested step parent adoption attorney in MN.
Step Parent Adoption Process
Here is a working definition of the term ‘contested step parent adoption’: When one of the child’s biological parents does not want the other biological parent’s new spouse or significant other to legally adopt the child, that parent may challenge the adoption process. If the biological parent who objects to the step parent adopting the child proceeds with a contested step parent adoption case, the situation will go before a judge who will decide the outcome, based on the law and what is in the best interest of the child.
The judge hearing the case will hear arguments from both parties before making a determination about the adoption process. It is common for contested adoptions to be based on one biological parent’s desire to place the child up for adoption and for the other biological parent to want to keep the baby. When the parent who wishes to keep the baby is involved in a new relationship, it is not uncommon for the new couple to want to proceed with a formal adoption process.
During the hearing, the presiding judge will gather as much information as possible about the circumstances pertaining to the case. If the biological father contests the prospective step-parent’s right to adopt the child, for instance, the judge will seek information about the biological father’s prior knowledge of the pregnancy and whether or not contact between the biological parents has been maintained. If the biological father has been out of contact for a significant period of time, the judge may conclude that he has forfeited the right to object to the adoption. In such cases, the judge often determines that abandonment has occurred on the part of the biological father.
A judge may also find compelling evidence to determine that the biological father has interests that supersede those of the prospective adoptive father, in which case the judge will require more information about the circumstances involved in the case.
Strong Legal Representation For Step Parent Adoption
As you can see, contested step parent adoption processes become very complicated very quickly. It is therefore very important that you seek the help of a qualified attorney to represent your interests. The team at Kallemeyn & Kallemeyn has the experience and expertise necessary to represent your interests and help you navigate a contested stepparent adoption. Call us at (763) 427-5131 to speak with a member of our team.
