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Second Parent Adoptions
In Colorado, a
child with only one legal parent may be adopted to include a second parent.
What is unique is the second parent can be any adult, provided that she or
he meets the statutory requirements and gains the consent of the legal
parent. The existing parent would not lose his or her parenting rights or
obligations, but would share them jointly with the second parent.
Second parent
adoptions may be used by same-sex parents, and in situations when a child
has a deceased parent. It also may be used if a parent’s rights have been
terminated or relinquished.
If you are your
child’s only legal parent and are interested in sharing the joys of
parenthood with someone special in your child’s or your life, or if you are
the grandparent, psychological parent, or domestic partner of such a child,
and are interested in becoming that child’s parent, second-parent adoption
may be an option.
Second-parent
adoptions bestow many legal obligations and rights on the second parent. It
is important that you speak with an attorney before making such a decision
so you are well informed about the potential consequences. | 
