What are the rights and duties of the adoptive child and the adoptive parents?

Full question:

I live with my husband in Nevada. We have made a request for adoption with the agency. However, I would like to know the rights and duties of the adoptive child and the adoptive parents.

  • Category: Adoption
  • Date:
  • State: Nevada

Answer:

In Nevada, the adoptive child and the adoptive parents shall become legal child and legal parents respectively. They will have all the rights and duties as that of the natural parents and legitimate child per the Nevada Revised Statutes Annotated §127.160. It reads:
 
“Upon the entry of an order of adoption, the child shall become the legal child of the persons adopting the child, and they shall become the child's legal parents with all the rights and duties between them of natural parents and legitimate child. By virtue of such adoption the child shall inherit from his or her adoptive parents or their relatives the same as though the child were the legitimate child of such parents, and in case of the death of the child intestate the adoptive parents and their relatives shall inherit the child's estate as if they had been the child's natural parents and relatives in fact. After a decree of adoption is entered, the natural parents of an adopted child shall be relieved of all parental responsibilities for such child, and they shall not exercise or have any rights over such adopted child or the property of such adopted child. The child shall not owe his or her natural parents or their relatives any legal duty nor shall the child inherit from his or her natural parents or kindred. Notwithstanding any other provisions to the contrary in this section, the adoption of a child by his or her stepparent shall not in any way change the status of the relationship between the child and his or her natural parent who is the spouse of the petitioning stepparent.”
 

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

To adopt your stepchild in Nevada, you must file a petition for adoption in the appropriate court. Both biological parents must consent to the adoption, unless one parent’s rights have been legally terminated. The process involves background checks, home studies, and a court hearing. Once finalized, you will have the same legal rights and responsibilities as a biological parent. It's advisable to consult with an attorney to navigate the legal requirements effectively. *Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.*