Boise Adoption Lawyer

Down-to-Earth and Experienced Legal Assistance in the Treasure Valley and Southern Idaho

Adoption is one of the most exciting prospects in life. You may be excited to have your family grow, and Schoettger Fabreguette Law Office is here to make that process as smooth as possible. We will provide the down-to-earth and relatable counsel you need to navigate the adoption process from beginning to end. We genuinely care about the clients we work with, and you can expect personalized and attentive legal support every step of the way. 

Schedule an initial consultation with Schoettger Fabreguette Law Office today to get started. Serving Ada County, Canyon County, Twin Falls, Sun Valley, Nampa.

 

Idaho’s Adoption Laws

In Idaho, any adult resident of the state may adopt. If the prospective parent is not the stepparent of the child (below), they must be either: 

  • at least 25 years old; or
  • at least 15 years older than the child. 

Additional qualifications for adoption include:

  • having a stable source of income suitable to support the family;
  • having adequate space in your house or apartment to provide a safe environment for the child;

If you are married, your spouse must consent to the adoption. Consent is a very important step in the adoption because if it is not done properly, the adoption cannot be finalized. 

Consent to adoption in Idaho must be provided in writing before an authorized officer, district judge, or magistrate. Note that consent is required from the following individuals:

  • both biological parents if the child was conceived or born during the marriage;
  • the mother of a child born outside marriage;
  • the unmarried birth father, if he has established paternity or been judged by the court to be the child’s father;
  • any legally appointed guardian of the child;
  • the guardian or conservator of an adult who is incapacitated;
  • the adopted person’s spouse (for an adult adoption);
  • the father of a child born outside of marriage if the father has adopted the child by acknowledgment;
  • the child if they are 12 years or older, unless the court finds that they are not mentally capable of consenting.

Note that consent is not required from anyone whose parental relationship with the child has been legally terminated. 

The Adoption Process – The Home Study

The home study is an information-gathering process that helps determine if the parents can provide a safe, nurturing environment for the child. The home study is waived when a stepparent is adopting a stepchild.

How to Adopt a Stepchild in Idaho

 

To adopt a stepchild in Idaho, you must meet the following criteria:

  • The stepparent and child have lived in the state for at least 6 months.
  • The parent maintaining his/her parental rights must consent. See the information above for who else must consent to an adoption. Whether a father must consent to the termination and adoption can be a complicated question and for more information on this issue, please contact our office to discuss your specific facts.
  • If the stepchild is over the age of 12, they must give their written consent to the adoption and must understand that this means their other birth parent will no longer be their legal parent.

If you meet all the above criteria, you may legally adopt your stepchild. Be aware that this process effectively terminates the other biological parent’s parental rights. This is why it’s important to seek the other parent’s consent, because otherwise, they may contest the adoption.

Adoption can be a lengthy process, depending on the circumstances of your adoption. Our adoption attorney at Schoettger Fabreguette Law Office can guide you through the process efficiently, providing personal attention and guidance. We are excited for you to begin this new chapter of your life with a new addition to the family, and we will take care of the legal side while you focus on your family.

Contact Our Idaho Adoption Attorney Today at Schoettger Fabreguette Law Office to schedule your initial consultation and learn more about how to adopt a stepchild in Idaho.

Contact Us Today

 Schedule your case evaluation with our family law attorney.

Our Client Testimonials

  • “She advocates for the best interest of the child -- even when the rest of the system doesn't.”
/

Experienced Attorney

Passionate & Dedicated to Your Case
/

Contact Us

Schedule a Consultation

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy