Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Hello. Okay so my biological father has no family outside of myself and his wife. While I care for him as a Dad/daughter relationship, I recognize that my stepdad of 11 years deserves the title as my Dad and I'd like for him to adopt me. My issue being is if worse ever came to worst and something happened to my stepmom and Dad (biological), typically I'd be next of kin and make medical decisions and such. Would I be giving that up if I choose to ask my stepdad to adopt me? I am nearly 19 years old so I am no longer a minor


Asked on 9/20/16, 10:30 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

In order for your step-father to adopt you, your biological father would have to relinquish his parental rights. As to making medical decisions unless you are named under a Medical Proxy or Medical Power of Attorney, you would have to go to court to get permission to make those medical decisions claiming to be his next of kin which would be much more difficult if your bio father gives up his parental rights.

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Answered on 9/20/16, 10:52 pm


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