Adopting a Child in Alabama
Who can adopt in Alabama, whose consent is needed, home studies, and how stepparent adoption works.
Short answer: A stepparent files alone. The child must have lived with the stepparent for one year before the final judgment. Ala. Code §§ 26-10E-26, 26-10E-5(d), (e), 26-10E-10
| Stepparent adoption | A stepparent files alone. The child must have lived with the stepparent for one year before the final judgment. Instead of the full investigation, a limited investigation is required, filed within 30 days after the petition: letters of suitability, child abuse and neglect clearances and a sex-offender registry search for household members 14 and older (other than the child's legal parent), and a home safety inspection. The age-gap rule does not apply. The other parent's consent is required unless an exception applies, such as termination of rights or the other grounds listed in the Adoption Code. |
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Where to get help in Alabama
More Alabama divorce & family law
- Getting a Marriage License in Alabama
- Guardianship of a Child or Adult in Alabama
- Establishing Paternity in Alabama
- Changing Your Name in Alabama
- Child Custody Laws in Alabama
- How Child Support Is Calculated in Alabama
- Divorce Records in Alabama
- Alimony and Spousal Support in Alabama
- How to File for Divorce in Alabama
- Legal Separation and Annulment in Alabama
- All Alabama divorce & family law rules
FAQ
How does stepparent adoption work in Alabama?
A stepparent files alone. The child must have lived with the stepparent for one year before the final judgment. Instead of the full investigation, a limited investigation is required, filed within 30 days after the petition: letters of suitability, child abuse and neglect clearances and a sex-offender registry search for household members 14 and older (other than the child's legal parent), and a home safety inspection. The age-gap rule does not apply. The other parent's consent is required unless an exception applies, such as termination of rights or the other grounds listed in the Adoption Code.
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.