How Do I Adopt CR-2 Children From Mexico?

[Jim & Erika 0]

I am a USC and I am bringing my wife and two step daughters to the US from Mexico on CR-1 and CR-2 visas. I expect they will get their visas and be here before the end of the year. After they are here I want to adopt the two girls (ages 11 & 12). Their father was never married to my wife but is listed on their birth certificates as their legal father. He will be cooperative in signing whatever documents are necessary.

I would like to know what steps have to be taken both here and in Mexico in order for me to adopt them. If anyone has qualified knowledge on the matter, I'd appreciate hearing about it. I also would appreciate any attorney referrals.

Thanks.

Edited March 31, 2011 by JamesFromSD

[Jim & Erika 0]

PS: If it matters, by the time of my wife's interview we will have been married over two years so I guess the visa types when issued will be IR.

[Jojo92122 1,924]

I am a USC and I am bringing my wife and two step daughters to the US from Mexico on CR-1 and CR-2 visas. I expect they will get their visas and be here before the end of the year. After they are here I want to adopt the two girls (ages 11 & 12). Their father was never married to my wife but is listed on their birth certificates as their legal father. He will be cooperative in signing whatever documents are necessary.

I would like to know what steps have to be taken both here and in Mexico in order for me to adopt them. If anyone has qualified knowledge on the matter, I'd appreciate hearing about it. I also would appreciate any attorney referrals.

Thanks.

Adoption post immigration is a matter for the state you live in. You will need to consult with a family law attorney where you live.

REALLY REALLY IMPORTANT. When you adopt the girls, you will terminate their legal relationships with their father. This means, they can NEVER EVER petition for him if they want to later in life.

The obvious upside is that girls will automatically become US citizens when you adopt them.

If you are in San Diego, I can get you a few referrals for a family lawyer.

Edited April 1, 2011 by Jojo92122

[justashooter 430]

Adoption post immigration is a matter for the state you live in. You will need to consult with a family law attorney where you live.

REALLY REALLY IMPORTANT. When you adopt the girls, you will terminate their legal relationships with their father. This means, they can NEVER EVER petition for him if they want to later in life.

The obvious upside is that girls will automatically become US citizens when you adopt them.

If you are in San Diego, I can get you a few referrals for a family lawyer.

no big deal. the woman can petition him as soon as she gets her 10 year card.

[Jojo92122 1,924]

no big deal. the woman can petition him as soon as she gets her 10 year card.

What "woman?"

Adoption ends the legal relationship between the natural father and the girls. The girls will never ever be able to petition for their biological father after the US citizen stepfather adopts them.

The OP's wife can't petition for the father of her children because she has no legal relationship with him. An LPR can only petition for a spouse and unmarried children. He is neither. He's an ex-boyfriend.

Edited April 1, 2011 by Jojo92122