The traditional step parent adoption involves a woman who has remarried and has a child (or children) from a previous relationship. The same process is followed when the stepmother of a child wishes to adopt. When there is little or no contact with the biological father, the primary father/child relationship forms between the step parent and the child. Under such circumstances, it is important to proceed with an adoption, so that the step parent has legal recognition as the child’s parent. Without this legal status, the birthfather may be able to assert his rights as a parent, should the mother (father) become incapacitated. A step parent adoption therefore offers security to the child and family.         The birthfather must be given notice of adoption proceedings. Ordinarily, the birthfather is supportive of the adoption. The birthfather no longer owes child support once the adoption is finalized. He is still responsible, however, for any back child support incurred up to the time of the final adoption. A consent is presented to the birthfather for signature. If the birthfather signs the consent, the birthfather’s rights are voluntarily terminated and the step father may proceed with an adoption.         If the birthfather refuses to sign a consent, or it is impossible to locate the birthfather, it is still possible to terminate the birthfather’s rights. It may be necessary to publish notice to the birthfather in a newspaper with general circulation in the area of the birthfather’s last known address. This gives the birthfather notice of the proceedings and, if the birthfather fails to respond, his rights are terminated by the court.         The step father must obtain a homestudy (pre-placement report). The cost of the home study varies. Other costs include the following:   Filing Fee:   $220.00(WA)   $65.00(ID)   Birth Certificate Fee:   $ 32.00(WA)   $26.00(ID)   Regular and Certified Copies:   $ 35.00   Publication of Notice (if necessary):   $250.00 - $800.00        Legal fees will vary. A fixed fee is available if the birthfather voluntarily consents to the adoption.       For a free one half-hour consultation regarding a step parent adoption, please contact Mark R. Iverson at the following address:   Mark R. Iverson, P.S. 900 N. Maple Street Suite 201 Spokane, Washington 99201 (509) 462-3678 Toll Free: 1-800-338-8273 E-mail Address: adoptionlegalservices.org