A Step Parent Adoption Lawyer Hanover County helps stepparents adopt their spouse’s child under Va. Code § 63.2-1200. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 19 documented case results in Hanover County. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Va. Code § 63.2-1200 (official Virginia General Assembly)
What Is a Step Parent Adoption in Hanover County?
Step parent adoption in Hanover County allows a stepparent to legally adopt their spouse’s biological child without terminating the custodial parent’s rights. Under Va. Code § 63.2-1200, the non-custodial parent must consent or have their rights terminated. The Hanover County Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court handles these adoptions. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled step parent adoption cases in Hanover County since 1997.
In Hanover County, step parent adoption requires consent from the non-custodial parent or termination of parental rights. The process takes 3-6 months.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Step Parent Adoption | Civil Proceeding | None | Filing fee: ~$86 | None | New birth certificate; inheritance rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results in Hanover County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 19 total documented case results across all practice areas in Hanover County (100% favorable outcome rate). These include dismissals and reductions in traffic and criminal matters. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a stepparent adopt a child without the biological parent’s consent in Hanover County?
Yes, if the biological parent’s rights are terminated by the court due to abandonment, failure to support, or unfitness under Va. Code § 16.1-283.
How long does a step parent adoption take in Hanover County?
It depends. Uncontested adoptions with consent take 3-4 months. Contested adoptions requiring termination of parental rights take 6-12 months.
What is the filing fee for step parent adoption in Hanover County?
The Circuit Court filing fee for a step parent adoption petition is approximately $86. Additional costs include sheriff service of process ($12) and home study fees ($500-$1,500).
Does the child need to consent to the adoption in Virginia?
Yes, if the child is 14 years or older, their consent is required under Va. Code § 63.2-1202. The court may waive this requirement in certain circumstances.
Will the child’s last name change after a step parent adoption in Hanover County?
Yes, the court typically grants a name change to the adopting parent’s surname as part of the final adoption order. A new birth certificate is issued.