What Is Adult Adoption?

Adult adoption allows one adult to adopt another adult legally, most commonly someone over the age of 18. This is especially common in cases where a young person has lost both parents, aged out of foster care, or never had a supportive family structure.

God-parents, close family friends, mentors, or church members often step into this role to offer more than just love—they offer lifelong connection, stability, and a sense of belonging.

The adoptee must consent to the adoption, and if married, their spouse must also give consent. It’s a beautiful, mutual decision that reinforces the bond between two people who’ve chosen each other as family.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Adult Adoption

Adoption is often about formalizing a long-standing relationship between a caregiver and a young adult. It provides emotional closure, legal rights, and the comfort of belonging to a permanent family.

Yes. Adult adoptions require the full consent of the person being adopted, and their spouse if they are married. This ensures that the process is mutual and fully supported by everyone involved.

If you’re considering adopting a person who already holds a special place in your heart, we’re here to help make it official. A single phone call can connect you with a caring attorney who is ready to guide you through every step.

Why Adult Adoption Matters

For young people who’ve faced hardship, grief, or isolation, adoption is a life-changing experience. It doesn’t just offer a legal relationship—it creates a true home base. From holidays to healthcare decisions, adult adoption opens the door to shared responsibilities, inheritance rights, and emotional support.

It tells the adoptee, “You matter. You belong. You have a family.

Thinking About Adoption? You’re Not Alone.

Adoption is a meaningful and life-changing journey—and you don’t have to walk it by yourself. Whether you’re looking to adopt or place a child with a loving family, our caring legal team is here to support and guide you every step of the way.

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Stepparent Adoption

Stepparents often step into a child’s life during times of transition, offering love, support, and stability. Over time, many stepparents desire to make that role permanent through adoption—and for good reason.

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Relative Adoption

When a biological parent is unable to care for their child, due to illness, addiction, incarceration, or passing away, a trusted relative can step in and provide the love, stability, and support that the child needs.

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Adult Adoption

Adult adoption is a meaningful way to formalize those lasting relationships and create a permanent sense of belonging for someone who may have never had it before.

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Private Adoption

Life can be unpredictable. An unplanned pregnancy can bring with it overwhelming emotions, difficult decisions, and a deep need for support. If you’re facing this moment and unsure of what to do next, you’re not alone.

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DCF Intervention

The foster care system in the United States is overburdened and often deeply flawed. But here’s the good news: there are other options before the Department of Children and Families (DCF) steps in to terminate parental rights.