Adoption for same-sex couples is a highly controversial topic in family law, and same-sex couples often face many unique issues if they wish to adopt. Many states have different laws that apply to gay and lesbian adoptions, compared to heterosexual couples. Several states also have special rules that apply when a child is born to a gay or lesbian couple. Gay and lesbian couples can sometimes choose to bring a child into their lives through conception and birth as well. For a lesbian couple, this is usually done through a male donor or sperm bank and having one of the couples get pregnant. Likewise, gay men can use a surrogate mother and then become a legal parent through adoption. The other parent can then become a legal second parent through stepparent or second parent adoption. However, many states, including Virginia, do not allow second parent adoption. The definition of legal "parent" is (n.) the legitimate and natural father or mother of a person. The word does not mean grandparent or ancestor, but can include an adoptive parent replacing a natural parent. Adoption laws vary from state to state, and there are some states that allow lesbian and gay couples to adopt children as legal and joint parents. Gay and lesbian couples in these states can turn to adoption agencies to adopt, arrange their adoption themselves, or even adopt internationally. In many states, however, stepparenting, second parenting, or even joint adoption are not an option for gay and lesbian couples. . Although there is no law in the Commonwealth of Virginia that prohibits same-sex couples from adopting a child, it is usually a very hostile situation and on many occasions can be very difficult for gays and lesbians... of paper... .the way society will treat the child, the psychological effects on the child and above all his or her well-being and safety are the main factors that the courts should consider when dealing with this issue. As stated previously the issue of same-sex adoption is one of the most controversial topics in family law today across the country, and with good reason. Since it is about the education of human beings who are the future of our society, it is extremely important to ensure that they receive the best care and influence in their lives in order to make good moral and educated decisions in their future lives. . Same-sex parenting may not be as bad as society has made it seem, but it definitely needs to be proven socially and scientifically before further steps are taken in this matter because, after all, it is in the “best interest of the child””..”