Can my son adopt his wife's 6 yr old son?

[Dollychris]

Can my son legally adopt his wife's 6 yr old son? The little boys' dad has had no access to him for the past 5 years but does pay CSA. My son has been a 'Dad' to the little boy since he was 2 years old and they expect a child later this year having been married for a year.

[bednobs]

i think the dad would have to agree

[logic]

Yes you are right bednobs, I know that for a fact.
assuming he is still alive of course. and even then only through a solicitor.

[bednobs]

http://www.adoption.org.uk/information/step_ad option.html
some good info here - as it points out, there are very few circumstances in which it is in the childs interests to be adopted by the step parent - despite what the parents may want, the childs interests are paramount, and the court is likely to take the view that it's in the childs interest to remain the same father.

it seems to hinge on whether the dad was married to the mum or had arental responsibility. as it als point out, if you make an application, it might have unextected side effects like the father resuming contact

[jack daniels]

This may be of use

http://www.adoption.org.uk/information/step_ad option.html

[Dollychris]

Thank you very much for your prompt advice which is very much appreciated. The little boys Dad was never married to my daughter in law and apparantly has several children that he has no contact with or interest in but it has to be noted that he is paying CS for this son. My son has been advised that he must be married to the little boy's mum for a number of years before he can try to adopt but it is a minefield out there and very confusing. Of course the little boy's welfare must come first and he only knows my son as his Daddy. He has been told about his Dad though and his paternal grandmother is a caring person who sends cards and gifts etc., on special occasions.
It can never be simple and no two situations can ever be the same but my son wants to find out as much as he can.
I'll pass all this information to him and his wife and also the links that you so kindly sent. Thank you all - and bless you for taking time out to reply. xx

[bednobs]

as you will see in the link, there is no requirement for them to be married. However, dont forget that csa payments will stop if your son adopts him

[zzxxee]

i would seek the advise of a family solicitor ist half hour is usually free see what they say they are the experts