Can I adopt my stepchild in New Jersey if I was previously married to someone else?

Yes. Your previous marriages do not affect your eligibility for stepparent adoption in New Jersey. What matters is your current, valid marriage to the child's biological parent.

Requirements:

• You must be currently and legally married to the child's parent
• Previous marriages must be legally ended (divorce finalized or spouse deceased)
• There is no limit on the number of previous marriages
• The court does not evaluate your marital history

What the Superior Court focuses on:

• Is your current marriage valid?
• Have you met the 6-month residency requirement?
• Has the biological parent consented or abandoned the child?
• Do you pass the background check?
• Is the adoption in the child's best interest?

Your history does not define your eligibility. Blended families come in all configurations, and the court recognizes that. You are parenting this child now, and adoption makes it official.

Cost: $349 | Timeline: 3-6 months

Start at stepparentadoption360.com/questionnaire or call (855) 924-0450.