Definition: Second parent adoption is a legal procedure that allows same-sex couples (gay and lesbian parents) to adopt their partner's biological or adopted children without terminating the first parent's right as a parent. Second parent adoptions give the child two legal guardians. It protects both parents by giving both of them legally recognized parental status.
Not all states recognize second parent adoptions. Check with your local jurisdiction.
Next Term: Sex Abuse Trigger
Also Known As: Co-Parent Adoption
Examples: A second parent adoption usually takes place when a lesbian has a child through artificial insemination and her lesbian partner adopts the child as her own also.
