By Bari Zell-Weinberger Updated: October 16, 2017 Categories: Marriage and Divorce, Relationships and Dating
Families come in all shapes and sizes, and many same-sex couples are in the position to adopt children. In situations where the child is the biological or adopted child of only one partner or spouse, then adoption by the other spouse or partner can legally clarify their status and relationship as parents.
Parental status may entitle children to certain benefits such as healthcare coverage, inheritance rights, social security benefits, life insurance, pension payments, and veteran’s benefits. If parents end their relationship, having their legal status in place allows for rights to custody or parenting time, and responsibility for payment of child support.
Bari Zell Weinberger is the owner and managing partner of Weinberger Law Group in New Jersey. She is Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a Matrimonial Law Attorney.