Does your spouse have a child from another relationship? Do you have a strong bond with that child? Then you’ve likely considered adopting your spouse’s child so you can secure permanent guardianship and ensure the child is safely under your protection.
What if the child resents the adoption? What if you aren’t ready to be a parent? What if you didn’t prepare enough for the adoption? Many people fear they aren’t ready to adopt and so they question their actions when preparing to adopt a child.
However, asking yourself if you’re ready to adopt is just the first step in showing you’re ready The following are a few signs that demonstrate that you’re ready to start the adoption process:
#1. You love the child even if they aren’t biologically yours
One of the biggest signs that you’re ready to adopt your spouse’s child is if you care for and love the child, despite the child not being biologically related. Many people want the experience of conception and childbirth and resent the fact that they may not have that chance if they adopt a child. Yet, you know you’ll protect your spouse’s child regardless of who conceived them.
#2 You understand your parental rights and obligations
Do you know that, once you adopt a child, you’ll be responsible to ensure their well-being is met? You’ll likely be responsible to raise the child, meeting their needs and wants and ensuring they have good health and education. You likely know this and that’s a large indicator you’re ready to parent an adopted child.
#3. You know you may have to raise the child yourself
By taking on the adoption process, you should understand that there’s a possibility that your spouse could suddenly pass away, thus giving you all of the responsibility of caring for their child. You would likely have to raise your child yourself and make a living wage that supports you and the child. Every parent should know this risk, whether they adopted or gave birth to their child.
#4. You know the adoption process is long and confusing
The court wants to know that you’re dedicated to adopting your spouse’s child. That is partially why the adoption process is so long and confusing. You may fair a better chance at completing the adoption process with legal help by your side.
