Can a same-sex stepparent adopt in Rhode Island?

Yes! Same-sex stepparent adoption is fully legal in Rhode Island and all 50 states since the Supreme Court's 2015 Obergefell v. Hodges decision.

The process is identical to any other stepparent adoption:

• Legal marriage required (same-sex marriages are recognized nationwide)
• 6 months Rhode Island residency
• Consent or abandonment of the other biological parent
• Background check
• Child consent if age 14+
• Home study waived for stepparents in Rhode Island

Common LGBTQ+ scenarios we handle:

• Wife adopting wife's biological child from prior relationship
• Husband adopting husband's biological child from prior relationship
• Second-parent adoption for unmarried same-sex couples (available in some Rhode Island counties)

Important: There should be no discrimination based on sexual orientation in the adoption process. If you experience any issues, document them and contact an LGBTQ+ family law advocacy organization.

Filed in: Family Court

Cost: $349 document preparation

Timeline: 3-6 months

We've helped many LGBTQ+ families complete their adoptions. Your family deserves the same legal protections as any other. Start at stepparentadoption360.com/questionnaire.