Alabama stepparent adoption

[us.marine9_11]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Alabama

I have been the primary caregiver of my stepchildren (now14 & 16) since they were 3 &5. Being disabled, I can't afford to hire an attorney and after 11 years, her father has finally said he would sign the papers to allow me to legally adopt her. Is there a way for me to do it myself? If so, what would the process be, where would I start and what papers would I have to have? Even though I am disabled and don't have a lot of "extra" money, this is very important to me.
Thank you for your time,
Steven

 

[TheGeekess]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Alabama

I have been the primary caregiver of my stepchildren (now14 & 16) since they were 3 &5. Being disabled, I can't afford to hire an attorney and after 11 years, her father has finally said he would sign the papers to allow me to legally adopt her. Is there a way for me to do it myself? If so, what would the process be, where would I start and what papers would I have to have? Even though I am disabled and don't have a lot of "extra" money, this is very important to me.
Thank you for your time,
Steven

If this is VERY important to you, then I suggest you and your spouse find a way to have an attorney draw up the papers. Otherwise, mistakes might be made.

http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/CodeOfAlabama/1975/127509.htm

http://alisondb.legislature.state.al.us/acas/CodeOfAlabama/1975/127565.htm

 

[ecmst12]

Adoption is not a do-it-yourself project. Save up until you can afford to get an attorney and do it right, or don't do it at all. You don't want to screw around with the kids' futures.