Families today are more dynamic than ever. As attitudes towards divorce and remarrying have relaxed, so have the number of nontraditional families that often involve step-children from earlier marriages, as well as different “sets” of parents at either home. When families where children are already present are formed, many new spouses often grow close to their stepchildren and some even opt to legally adopt them, officially making themselves that child’s legal parent.
While this often leads to a stronger bond with the child, it can also lead to complicated questions in the case that the couple later decides to split. Namely, how does child support work when it comes to adoption in California?
This brief write up should provide some key facts on this matter, but if you’re looking for more involved assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to us at the R&S Law Group, LLP.
Adoptive Parents are Legally-Recognized Parents
California law is quite clear on this: adoptive parents are by all intents and purposes a child’s parent, including after a divorce. This means that, regardless of whether a child is biologically related or became part of the family via adoption, a parent still needs to provide for that child and is fully on the hook for child support when said requirement applies.
There are instances of parents who attempt to undo an adoption before divorce proceedings are finalized, usually in the hopes that they will avoid having to make child support payments. Unfortunately for them, the courts are typically not going to look at their case in a favorable light. Children require food, shelter, and other essential necessities, and the priority is always on ensuring that these needs are met above all else. This also means that the other parent is entitled to explore a variety of legal options when dealing with an ex-spouse who is failing to make child support payments meant for his adopted children.
Rely on a Qualified Family Law Attorney For All Your Child Custody Matters
So to summarize, yes, parents are obligated to provide child support for adopted children even after a separation or divorce. That being said, no matter which side of the equation you stand on, your best bet is to rely on the assistance of a qualified legal professional when facing these types of complex family law matters.
Remember, if you have any additional questions about child support, adoption, or any other matters relating to family law in California, we at the R&S Law Group, LLP are here to help. Call our offices at your earliest convenience to schedule your free initial consultation.