Adult Adoption

Many people are surprised to learn that adoption isn’t just for children.

The law governing adult adoptions is found in Family Code 9600.

(a) An adult may be adopted by another adult, including a stepparent, as provided in this part.

(b) A married minor may be adopted in the same manner as an adult under this part.”

There are many reasons you may wish to adult an adult:

Perhaps you’re a stepparent and your stepchild’s biological parent never terminated their rights. Now that your stepchild’s an adult but you still want to formalize the adoption.
You fostered or cared for a child and then they turned 18, but you still wish to legally adopt them.
If you’re part of a same-sex couple and previously weren’t able to both be considered your child’s legal parents.
If you’re an adoptee who has reunited with your birth family and wish to be adopted by them.
Anyone who has developed a close parent-child relationship and wants it to be formally and legally recognized.

An adult adoption can be an important way to provide legal formality and permanence, granting rights and protection to your relationship.

The adopted adult would be able to inherit from you.
He or she would be able to receive Social Security or insurance benefits.
He or she would be able to have your same last name.
You would have the ability to make important medical decisions in case of emergency.