Quick answer
Stepparent adoptions happen when a biological parent remarries and their spouse wants to become the child's legal parent. Relative adoptions serve a similar purpose by making legal a parent-child relationship that already exists in the home. Building Families guides South Carolina families through both.
What is a stepparent or relative adoption?
A stepparent adoption occurs when a biological parent remarries and the new spouse wants to assume legal parenthood of the child. Adoptions by close relatives, such as grandparents or other family members, often serve the same purpose of legally formalizing a relationship that already exists in the home.
How is this different from a domestic adoption match?
Unlike domestic matching with an expectant mother, stepparent and relative adoptions usually start with a child who already lives with the family. The legal work still matters, though; Building Families provides the guidance needed to make sure the relationship is fully recognized under South Carolina law.
Does ICPC affect relative adoptions across state lines?
Usually not. Relative adoptions can affect whether the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) applies when a child would otherwise move across state lines. See our ICPC guide for more on when that process is required and when relative adoptions may be exempt.
What’s the next step?
If you’re considering a stepparent or relative adoption, start on our adoption services page or contact Building Families to talk through your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my spouse automatically become my child's legal parent when we marry?
Marriage alone does not typically establish legal parentage; a formal stepparent adoption is usually required along with a termination of parental rights as to the other biological parent.
Can grandparents or other relatives adopt a child in South Carolina?
Yes; Building Families handles close-relative adoptions, which often formalize a caregiving relationship that already exists.
Is a home study required for a stepparent adoption?
No.
How long does a stepparent adoption typically take?
An uncontested stepparent adoption usually finalizes 2 to 4 months after the process starts.
The information contained here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship.