Get Petition For Stepparent Adoption - Minnesota Judicial Branch - Courts Mn

The Petition for Stepparent Adoption is a crucial document for individuals seeking to adopt a stepchild in Minnesota. This guide provides a clear and supportive framework for completing the form online, ensuring you can navigate this process with confidence.

Follow the steps to fill out the form accurately and efficiently.

1. Click the ‘Get Form’ button to obtain the form and open it in your preferred editing tool.
2. Begin by entering the judicial district and court file number specific to your case at the top of the form. This information helps to identify your petition within the court system.
3. In the section titled 'Petitioners,' provide the full names of both the stepparent and the parent. Ensure the information is accurate to avoid any delays in processing.
4. Enter the respective dates of birth for both petitioners. This identification is crucial for the court's records.
5. State the date and location of the marriage between the petitioners. This confirms the legal relationship required for a stepparent adoption.
6. Fill in the current street address of the petitioners. This is a necessary detail for establishing residency.
7. Indicate the date that the petitioners began residing in Minnesota and select the appropriate option regarding residency requirements under Minnesota Statutes § 259.22.
8. List the names and details of the child or children being adopted. This includes their current full names, ages, and birth dates. Ensure accuracy in this section.
9. Confirm whether the child or children own any property other than clothing and personal effects. Include any necessary additional documentation if applicable.
10. Attach a certified copy of each child's birth certificate as required by the court.
11. Indicate whether the child or children are Indian and if the Indian Child Welfare Act applies. If applicable, further documentation will be needed, and different forms will be necessary.
12. Describe the relationship details concerning custody and residence of the child or children since the marriage.
13. Provide consent details from each child aged 14 or older and from the non-petitioning parent. Ensure these consents are properly documented and witnessed.
14. Include the results of the search of the fathers' adoption registry if applicable.
15. Complete the list of parties involved in the adoption proceeding, ensuring names and addresses are correctly provided.
16. Acknowledge that a home study may be waived for stepparent adoption, and choose whether to request a waiver for the post-placement assessment.
17. Decide whether to enter into a communication and contact agreement with the non-petitioning parent and indicate your choice.
18. Express your desire for the court to issue a decree of adoption, including any name changes requested for the child or children.
19. Review the list of documents included with your petition, checking off any that are applicable. This ensures all necessary information is submitted.
20. Sign the petition in the presence of a notary public. Both petitioners must sign separately, ensuring compliance with legal requirements.
21. Once the form is completed and signed, consider saving, downloading, or printing a copy of the document for your records before submission.

Start your online journey today by filling out the necessary documents for a stepparent adoption.