The law in Arizona (ARS § 8-103) states that “any adult resident of this state, whether married, unmarried, or legally separated is eligible to qualify to adopt children. A husband and wife may jointly adopt children. ”

However, it is important to note that the child would still only have one legal parent. In addition, these children would not be entitled to additional health and social security benefits or inheritance rights. In the event of a separation, the child would not be entitled to child support from the non-legal parent and only the legal parent would have custody rights.

There are many things that gay or lesbian parents can do in order to protect the child later. An attorney can help them draw up the papers necessary to prevent the potential problems that may arise from a separation.