New Beginnings Family Law, a Huntsville-based firm specializing in family law across North Alabama, is advising prospective adoptive families about significant changes now in effect under Act 2025-407, part of the newly enacted Alabama Minor Adoption Code (Ala. Code § 26-10E-26). As experienced adoption lawyers, the team emphasizes the importance of understanding the new requirements before beginning the process.
Historically, stepparent adoptions in Alabama have been less complex than traditional adoptions. However, Act 2025-407 introduces meaningful new requirements. The most immediate change is the One-Year Rule: the child must live with the stepparent for a full year before the adoption can be finalized. Courts will now require a "limited investigation," a structured review less intensive than a home study used in traditional adoptions but with its own documentation and procedural requirements.
Background checks have been expanded. Every household member aged 14 and older must be cleared through Adam Walsh Child Protection checks and a search of the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website. A formal home safety inspection is also required, confirming the residence is a suitable environment for the child.
"These changes mark an important shift in how Alabama courts approach stepparent adoptions," said Amber James, managing member at New Beginnings Family Law. "Families who were already partway through the process, or who assumed a stepparent adoption would be quick and relatively informal, may be surprised by what's now required. We don't want anyone caught off guard. Our firm is here to help make sure that every requirement is understood and that each step is handled correctly the first time."
New Beginnings Family Law is an Alabama family law firm focused exclusively on serving clients throughout North Alabama in matters including divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, mediation, military divorce, estate planning, and more. With more than 10 years of experience and a team of dedicated attorneys—including Amber James, David Pace, Allie Thompson, Kylie Grissom and Lauren McLaughlin—the firm guides families through life's most difficult transitions with clarity and compassion.
