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I don't really know much- we've only just begun the process of having my husband adopt my daughter. First off, there is no longer a one-year married waiting period for step-parent adoption. But, if you haven't been married a year, you do have to undergo a home study. Only after a year marriage can a judge waive the study (not sure how that part works). You're first step is to terminate the bio father's rights. I think there are standard forms for this if he's willing to sign voluntarily, but I haven't been able to find them. If not, you have to go to court terminate the rights- in OK the requirements are no support, no contact for 12 out of the last 14 months. State-mandated support- where the Child Support Enforcement Agency is involved doesn't count (at least my attorney said it shouldn't in my case). Then you have a hearing to determine if it's in the child's best interest for the step-parent to adopt.
I hope this helps a little- I searched and searched for info before finally just seeing a lawyer. It's going to cost us around $2000 ($1000-1500 for attn. fees, $500 home study fee), but it's well worth it. Your best bet is to set up a consultation and see what an attorney has to say.
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