How Stepparent AdoptionWorks
From questionnaire to courthouse: Your complete guide to making your family official in 2-4 months.
Which type of adoption?
The Stepparent Adoption Process
Five straightforward steps to legally adopt your stepchild. Most families complete the process in 3-6 months.
Complete Our Online Questionnaire
15-20 minutesAnswer questions about your family: your marriage, the child you want to adopt, and the biological parent situation. This information customizes your documents to your specific circumstances.
- Basic information about you and your spouse
- Details about the child (name, birth date, etc.)
- Information about the biological parent
- Whether consent is expected or rights need termination
Receive Your Court-Ready Documents
Within 24 hoursOur team prepares a complete document package customized to your state and county requirements. Every form is ready to sign and file.
- Petition for Stepparent Adoption
- Consent forms (if biological parent consents)
- Order of Adoption for the judge
- Filing instructions specific to your court
- Background check forms (if required)
File with Your Local Court
1-2 hoursTake your signed documents to the courthouse clerk. Pay the filing fee (typically $200-$400) and receive your case number.
- We tell you exactly which court to file in
- Bring your documents and filing fee
- Clerk assigns a case number
- Court schedules your hearing date
Complete State Requirements
2-8 weeksHandle any additional requirements your state mandates. We provide guidance on what to expect and how to complete each step.
- Background checks (required in most states)
- Home study (waived for stepparents in many states)
- Consent or termination of parental rights
- Waiting period (varies by state)
Attend Your Final Hearing
15-30 minutesAppear before the judge who will ask a few questions and officially finalize the adoption. Most families say this is the best day of their lives.
- Brief, typically joyful proceeding
- Judge asks about your intentions and the child's welfare
- Adoption decree signed that day
- You can now apply for new birth certificate
Typical Timeline
Most stepparent adoptions are finalized within 2-4 months, with most completing in about 3 months
* Most families complete the process in about 3 months. Timeline varies by state.
What's Included in Your $349 Package
Complete Document Package
All required forms for your state: petition, consents, orders, and any supplemental documents your court requires.
State-Specific Customization
Documents tailored to your state and county court requirements. We research local rules so you don't have to.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Clear guidance on where to file, what to bring, what to expect, and how to prepare for your hearing.
Unlimited Revisions
Need changes? We'll revise your documents at no extra charge until they're exactly right.
Phone & Email Support
Questions along the way? Our team is available to help you through every step of the process.
100% Court Acceptance Guarantee
If the court doesn't accept your documents for any document-related reason, we refund your entire fee.
Common Questions About the Process
How long does stepparent adoption take?
Most stepparent adoptions are finalized within 3-6 months from filing. The timeline depends on your state's requirements, court scheduling, and whether the biological parent consents or their rights need to be terminated. Some states have mandatory waiting periods.
Do I need a lawyer for stepparent adoption?
No, you don't need a lawyer for most stepparent adoptions. Our service provides all the legal documents you need, properly prepared for your state. Many families successfully complete the process without attorney representation, saving $2,500-$5,000 in legal fees.
What if the biological parent won't consent?
Over 80% of stepparent adoptions proceed without the biological parent's consent. If the parent has abandoned the child, failed to pay support, or had minimal contact, their rights may be terminated by the court. We provide the appropriate documents for both scenarios.
What are the requirements for stepparent adoption?
Generally, you must be married to the child's biological parent and meet your state's residency requirements (usually 6-12 months). Most states also require background checks. Some states require a home study, though many waive this for stepparents.
Can I change my stepchild's last name during adoption?
Yes! The adoption order can include a legal name change at no extra court fee. You can change the child's last name to yours, hyphenate it, or make other name changes. A new birth certificate is issued after the adoption is finalized.
What happens at the final hearing?
The final hearing is typically brief (15-30 minutes) and celebratory. The judge will ask you a few questions about your intention to adopt and ensure the child's welfare. Many courts allow families to take photos with the judge. The adoption is official that day.
How much does stepparent adoption cost total?
Our document service is $349. Court filing fees vary by state but typically range from $200-$400. Some states have additional costs for background checks ($50-$100). Total out-of-pocket is usually $549-$750, compared to $2,500-$5,000 for attorney-assisted adoptions.
Is adult adoption different from stepparent adoption?
Yes, adult adoption (for someone 18 or older) is simpler. It doesn't require biological parent consent, home studies, or background checks. The adult being adopted simply consents to the adoption. Most adult adoptions finalize in 4-8 weeks.
Ready to Make Your Family Official?
Join over 34,000 families who have completed their adoptions with our service. Start your questionnaire today and receive your documents within 24 hours.
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