Adult Adoptions in California
Adult adoption may not be as commonly discussed as child adoption, but it holds deep emotional and legal significance. Whether it’s a stepparent who raised a child into adulthood, a long-lost relative reconnecting later in life, or a chosen family bond stronger than blood, adult adoption is a powerful way to formalize familial love and bonds.
We help simplify the entire adult adoption process in California, from filing the initial petition, to preparing for your court hearing. and getting your Order granted by the Judge. Whether you're the adoptive parent (aka “Adopter”) or the adult being adopted (aka “Adoptee”), we’ll walk you through what to expect and help your get your case accepted and completed seamlessly, so you can focus on what matters most. Ready to make it official?
What Is Adult Adoption?
Adult adoption is the legal process of establishing a parent-child relationship between two consenting adults. In California, this process creates a permanent legal bond with all the rights and responsibilities of a parent-child relationship, including:
Inheritance rights
Next-of-kin status
Optional name changes
Birth certificate updates
Adult adoptions are commonly used when a stepparent, guardian, foster parent, or chosen family member has played a parental role and wants to formalize that connection. It's a heartfelt way to fortify family in everyway possible: emotionally, and legally, too.
What Does the Adult Adoption Process Look Like?
The adult adoption process in California is more straightforward than adoptions involving minors. No home study or social worker evaluation is required. Here’s how it works:
Consent & Eligibility Check: Both the adopting parent and the adult being adopted must agree to the adoption and be at least 18 years old + some additional jurisdiction and eligibility requirements.
Document Preparation: We draft the Adoption Agreement, Petition for Adult Adoption, Declaration, Exhibits, Order, Notices, local forms and all other supporting documents.
Court Filing: Your documents are filed with the Superior Court in the county where either party lives. We work with the Court Clerk to ensure acceptance of your case.
Court Hearing: A hearing is scheduled, where both the adopting parent and the adult being adopted appear before the Judge. The judge reviews the documents and, if everything is in order, approves the adoption decree.
Case Complete: Certified Adoption Order: Once granted, the judge signs a final order, which is used for name changes and updating legal records. Our office helps walk you through post-filing procedures and important need-to-knows. Your case is complete and you can move forward with your life and your (newly legal!) family.
Why Choose a Paralegal for Your Adult Adoption?
Hiring a paralegal saves you time, money, and stress, especially for straightforward adult adoption cases where both parties agree. Unlike other cases, adult adoptions don’t usually have standard forms to simply checkbox. Adult Adoptions can require extensive drafting in a pleading format, which we take care of for you. At Paralegal-Ease & Notary, LLC, we offer:
Fast, professional and stress-free document preparation
Flat rate packages with no hourly billing
Case management from start to finish
Final hearing preparation and courtesy paralegal sit-in
Expertise in local court procedure and clerk requirements for with courts located in Orange County, Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, San Diego and Ventura county.
With us, you’ll get professional legal document support tailored to your needs. Efficient, affordable, and personal.
FAQ: What If the Adoptee’s Biological Parent Is Still Living?
Unlike adoptions involving minors, adult adoptions do not require the consent of the adoptee’s biological parents. This makes the process much simpler and more private. Once finalized, the adoptive parent becomes the legal parent, and the new relationship is recognized under California law.
Did You Know?
If the adult being adopted (“adoptee”) is married, the adoptee’s spouse must also consent and sign a declaration for the adoption. This is required by California law to ensure that all parties involved in the adult’s legal and family status are informed and agree to the change.
Real Family Love Deserves Real Legal Recognition
Adult adoption is more than just a legal formality. It’s a celebration of unconditional love, chosen family, and lifelong connection. Whether you’ve shared years together or recently reunited, this process allows you to put that bond into both writing and law. At Paralegal-Ease & Notary, we’re honored to help turn your personal story into a legal reality.
Reach out today for a free consultation. We can help make your family legally official.
or, give us a call at (714) 248-6064
