Alternatives to step-parent adoption
The following alternatives to step-parent adoption can also secure the child's place in your family.
- Parental Responsibility Agreement - a step-parent married to a birth parent may obtain parental responsibility if all those with parental responsibility give consent to the agreement.
- Parental Responsibility Order - a court order that specifies that a named person has parental responsibility for a child. Parental responsibility is then shared between the holder and any birth parent who already has parental responsibility (or anyone who has also acquired parental responsibility by way of a court order).
- Child Arrangement Order - a court order that specifies the name of the person(s) with whom a child is to live. The named person automatically acquires parental responsibility for the child and this is shared with anyone else who has parental responsibility for the child (usually the birth parents). The order lasts until the child reaches the age of 16 or 18.
Have a question?
If you have particular questions relating to your own circumstances, please get in touch.