Services / Adoption
Adoption Document Preparation
Professional adoption document preparation for California families. Step-parent adoptions, independent adoptions, and adult adoptions — all paperwork prepared accurately at your direction, for a fraction of what a family law attorney would charge.
What We Prepare
Step-Parent Adoption
The most common type of adoption in California. We prepare the Adoption Request (Form ADOPT-200), Adoption Agreement (ADOPT-210), Adoption Order (ADOPT-215), and all required supporting documents. We also prepare the stepparent adoption investigation forms required by the court or probation department.
Independent Adoption
Also called a direct placement or private adoption, where the birth parent(s) place the child directly with adoptive parents without an adoption agency. We prepare the Adoption Request, birth parent consent forms, the Independent Adoption Placement Agreement, and the required adoptive parent questionnaire and background information forms.
Adult Adoption
California allows adoption of one adult by another adult (typically for inheritance purposes or formalizing an existing parent-child relationship). Simpler than a minor adoption — no parental consent, no investigation, and no court appearance is typically required if both parties consent.
Termination of Parental Rights
Required as part of a step-parent or independent adoption when a biological parent's rights must be terminated. Termination can be by consent (the parent voluntarily signs) or by court finding (abandonment, failure to support, unfitness).
Consent to Adoption Forms
Formal consent forms for birth parents, including the required witnessing and acknowledgment provisions. In California, a birth parent's consent becomes irrevocable 30 days after signing (or upon court order, whichever comes first), unless obtained by fraud or duress.
Adoption Order & New Birth Certificate
The final Decree of Adoption (ADOPT-220) and the VS-44 form to request a new birth certificate from the California Department of Public Health. We prepare both so the adoption is properly finalized.
How It Works
Free Consultation
We discuss your adoption situation with compassion and respect — the type of adoption, the relationship of all parties, whether consent is expected from the biological parent(s), and which forms are required. We'll explain the adoption process timeline and what information we need from you.
Document Preparation
We prepare all adoption forms based on your specific situation and instructions. Every document is prepared with careful attention to the detailed information adoption courts require — including the child's background, the adoptive parents' qualifications, and termination of any existing parental rights.
Filing & Court Instructions
We provide clear instructions for filing with the Superior Court, serving required notices, completing the adoption investigation (if applicable), and preparing for the adoption hearing. For step-parent adoptions, we explain what to expect at the investigation interview.
Important: We are not attorneys and cannot represent you in adoption proceedings or advise on adoption strategy. Adoption law is complex and the consequences of errors can be severe — a procedurally defective adoption can be challenged years later. We prepare documents at your specific direction.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is a step-parent adoption different from other adoptions?+
Step-parent adoptions are the most common adoption type in California. The key differences: the child typically already lives with the step-parent and biological parent; the adoption severs the non-custodial biological parent's rights; a court investigation is required; and no home study is usually required. The process is typically faster than an independent adoption.
What if the other biological parent won't consent to the adoption?+
In California, a step-parent adoption can proceed without the biological parent's consent under certain circumstances: if the parent has abandoned the child for at least one year without communication or support, if the parent has failed to support the child for at least one year despite having the ability, or if the parent is unfit. We prepare the Petition to Terminate Parental Rights and supporting declarations at your direction.
How long does an adoption take in California?+
A step-parent adoption typically takes 4-8 months from filing to final decree, including the investigation period. An independent adoption can take 6-12 months, including the home study and post-placement supervision period. Adult adoptions are faster — often 1-2 months with no investigation required.
What is the adoption investigation and what should I expect?+
For step-parent adoptions, the court typically orders an investigation by the probation department, social services, or a court-appointed investigator. The investigator interviews the adoptive parent(s), the biological parent, and the child (if age-appropriate), and reviews criminal history. We prepare your paperwork — you attend the investigation interview.
Related Services
Ready to Start Your Adoption Paperwork?
Schedule a free, confidential consultation to discuss your adoption document needs. We'll handle the paperwork with care and precision.