Adoption in California

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Adoption is the legal process by which a person becomes a lawful member of a different family 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 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 legally be changed, and an amended birth certificate can be issued.

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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 people 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.

Types of Adoption

Stepparent Adoption

In a stepparent adoption, the family adopting is a birth parent with a new spouse. A stepparent adoption creates a legal relationship between a stepparent and stepchild that did not exist before. The biological parent who is married to the person adopting the child retains their parental rights.

Independent 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.

Adult Adoption

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

California Adoption Resources

Affordable Adoption in California

Adopting someone into your family is a serious and rewarding undertaking, and A People’s Choice is here to make the process smoother for you.

Our expert team provides affordable document preparation services, guiding you through every step of the adoption process in California.

Whether you’re pursuing a stepparent, independent, or adult adoption, our comprehensive services ensure a positive experience without the high costs of an attorney.

$2750

Money saved on average

when you choose A People’s Choice instead of a lawyer

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What makes our service unique?

Professional Experience

With more than 40 years of experience and a proven track record, we ensure that you receive top-tier service without breaking the bank.

Expert Verification

Our team of licensed professionals meticulously reviews every document, guaranteeing nothing is overlooked.

Statewide Reach

Serving all 58 California counties with affordable, high-quality legal document services, we’re your go-to solution no matter where you are. Our deep local knowledge and competitive pricing give you the edge.

Trusted Reputation

Our top-rated legal document preparation services set the standard online. With decades of experience, we’ve earned the trust of clients across California through our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

How it works

1. Complete our questionnaire

Complete our simple online form, it’s quick, convenient and risk free!

2. Review and confirm services

Review your information and tell us how quickly you need your documents.

3. Sign and purchase

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Common Questions about California Adoption

What is adoption in California?

Adoption in California is a legal process that makes a child or adult a permanent member of a new family, transferring all parental rights and responsibilities to the adoptive parents.

What types of adoptions are available in California?

Agency Adoptions: Managed by public or private agencies responsible for the child’s care and placement.
Independent Adoptions: Birth parents select the adoptive parents directly, with support from an Adoption Service Provider (ASP).
Adult Adoptions: Establishes a legal parent-child relationship between adults.
Stepparent Adoptions: A stepparent adopts their spouse’s child, creating a legal relationship.

How do I adopt a minor child in California?

To adopt a minor child in California, you can work with local public adoption agencies, California Department of Social Services Adoption Regional Offices, or licensed private adoption agencies. A People’s Choice, as a legal document assistant, can also help prepare and file the necessary adoption documents, making the process smoother and more affordable.

What are the costs of adoption services in California?

Adoption costs in California can include agency fees, court fees, fingerprinting, medical exams, and other related expenses. A People’s Choice offers affordable fees for legal document preparation:
- Stepparent Adoption: $499 per minor child
- Independent Adoption: $650 per adoption
- Adult Adoption: $599 per adoption
- Petition to Terminate Parental Rights: $599 per petition
An attorney is typically not required, but legal advice may be helpful, especially for independent adoptions.

Do you need a lawyer to adopt in California?

You do not need a lawyer to adopt in California. A People’s Choice provides affordable legal document preparation services, making the adoption process accessible and straightforward without the high attorney fees.

Adoption Services We Offer	Price
Uncontested Stepparent Adoption - one minor child (for each additional minor child add $150)	$499*
Petition to Terminate Parental Rights of unknown father	$599
Petition to Terminate Parental Rights (Willful Failure to Support or Abandonment)	$599
Adult Adoption - 1 adoptor & 1 adoptee (add $150 if there are 2 co-adoptors)	$599
Independent Adoption	$650*
Other Adoption Services	Call for Quote

*Adoptions involving children with Native American ancestry will have higher fees.

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Let A People’s Choice simplify your adoption journey, no matter the type you wish to pursue. We make the process straightforward and affordable, and our expert team is ready to assist you every step of the way.