What are the rights and duties of adoptive parents and children in Nevada?

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, once an adoption is finalized, the adoptive child becomes the legal child of the adoptive parents, and they become the child's legal parents. This grants them all the rights and responsibilities similar to those of natural parents and their legitimate children, as stated in Nevada Revised Statutes Annotated § 127.160.

The adopted child will inherit from their adoptive parents and their relatives just like a biological child would. Additionally, if the adopted child passes away without a will, the adoptive parents and their relatives will inherit from the child's estate as if they were the child's natural parents.

After the adoption decree, the biological parents are relieved of all parental responsibilities and have no rights over the adopted child or their property. The adopted child is not obligated to their biological parents or relatives, nor can they inherit from them.

It's important to note that if a stepparent adopts a child, this does not alter the relationship between the child and their biological parent who is married to the adopting 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.*