What is the legal definition of Adoption

Adoption is a legal process through which an individual or couple becomes the legal parent(s) of a child who is not biologically their own. The legal definition can vary by jurisdiction, but generally, it involves several key elements:

**Termination of Parental Rights**: The legal parental rights of the child's biological parents must be terminated, either voluntarily or involuntarily, to ensure that the adoptive parents will have full rights and responsibilities for the child.

**Legal Recognition**: The adoption must be formalized through a legal decree or court order, which grants the adoptive parents the same rights and responsibilities as biological parents.

**Best Interests of the Child**: Adoption laws typically emphasize that the process must be in the best interests of the child, ensuring their well-being and stability.

**Consent**: In most cases, the consent of the biological parents (if applicable) and, in some jurisdictions, the consent of the child (depending on their age and maturity) is required.

**Home Study**: A home study may be conducted to evaluate the living situation and suitability of the prospective adoptive parents.

**Types of Adoption**: There are various types of adoption, including domestic and international adoption, foster care adoption, and stepparent adoption, each with its own specific legal requirements.

It is important to consult local laws and regulations or seek legal advice for specific definitions and processes related to adoption in a given jurisdiction.