text: know anything about step-parent adoptions?   each state has varying legal requirements. it is easiest when the non-custodial parent has no wish to object and will sign over their rights willingly. sometimes there is a stipulation that the custodial parent and stepparent have to be married for a certain length of time before they can apply.  here is a good website from the us department of health and human services:  http://naic.acf.hhs.gov/pubs/r_step.cfm