Legal Question in Family Law in Indiana

Re: Child Adoption

Every case is different. However, being a stepparent does streamline the process a bit. You have to file a Petition and other documentation, give notice and have a hearing.

The process will take about 4- 6 months depending on the cirtcumstances

or longer if contested.

Re: Child Adoption

You will need consent of the biological parent to whom you are married. You should seek consent from the other parent, and absent that, you need to have some legal reason(s) as to why that parent should lose his parental rights to the child. Often, this comes where a non-custodial parent has refused to pay support or otherwise involve him or herself in the life of the child.

The process is typically one that takes several months to complete, depending on a variety of things. The average time is about 4 months, but can be sooner (or later). There's a home study that will have to be done, and sometimes they can drag their feet, especially if you're in a busy county.