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CALIFORNIA ADOPTION - OVERVIEW
A People’s Choice can save you hundreds of dollars by preparing your California adoption documents instead of an expensive attorney!
Adoption Learning Center
Our online learning center provides quick access to valuable information contained in our web
site, California and Federal Codes, Court web sites and other legal sources of information.
What is an Adoption? Adoption is the legal process by which a person becomes a lawful member of a family different
from their birth family. An adoption ends the rights of a birth parent and creates rights for the adoptive parent(s). Once the
court has issued the final order of adoption, the adoptive parents gain the same rights and responsibilities as parents
whose children are born to them. This includes rights to inheritance, child support and other legal matters. At the time the
adoption is finalized, the adopted child's name can be legally changed, and an amended birth certificate can be issued.
Types of Adoption: There are approximately 12 different routes towards adoption. Our web site addresses the three
main types: stepparent adoption, independent adoption and adult adoption. Independent adoption occurs when
birth parents and adoptive families find each other on their own or through the help of an adoption intermediary, i.e. pastor,
family friend, or doctor. Agency adoptions are handled through a child placement agency, and in California, are licensed by
the State Department of Social Services. In a stepparent adoption, the family adopting is a birth parent with a new spouse.
Adult adoption is the process whereby a person eighteen years or older is legally adopted by another adult or adults. A
relative placement adoption occurs when the birth parent(s) is still a minor, has died or is disabled, or the child has been
removed due to abuse and neglect and another relative assumes physical custody and responsibility for the child.
Who can Adopt in California?
Any adult living in California may file a petition to adopt a child who is at least ten years
younger than the petitioner. Married couples are most likely to apply to become adoptive parents, although single and
divorced individuals are not prohibited from adopting in California. The following persons generally may adopt:
- A husband and wife or two domestic partners, jointly
- The unmarried minor birth parent of the person being adopted
- An unmarried adult along with the birth parent of the person being adopted
- An unmarried adult, individually
- An adult who is married or has a domestic partner with the consent of their spouse or domestic partner
- In California adoptions, the person adopting must be a California resident.
A People’s Choice can save you hundreds of dollars by preparing your California adoption documents instead of an expensive attorney!
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