step parent adoption

[Proserpina]

Mom is out of the country and can't return.

IIRC, CA recognizes de facto parents and SM would clearly meet that definition. It might not be as hard as you think for her to remain in the child's life if something happens to Dad.

I do see what you're saying, believe me.

But if it were me? I'd go ahead and get it all solidified. That way there can't be any hiccups in the future.

(Divorce issues notwithstanding... )

 

[mistoffolees]

I do see what you're saying, believe me.

But if it were me? I'd go ahead and get it all solidified. That way there can't be any hiccups in the future.

(Divorce issues notwithstanding... )

I'm not saying that they shouldn't. I'm simply suggesting that they think long and hard about it - and there's no real hurry. A lot of people think of the positives of adoption without considering the negatives, as well.

In this case - where there's no way for Mom to come back to the country and where CA recognized de facto parenting, the positives are even smaller than usual.

The advice to speak with an attorney is absolutely correct. But part of that discussion should involve "should we do this in the first place".