Yes, it is possible to be adopted as an adult in California. Adult adoption is not as common as the adoption of minors, but it can be a meaningful way to formalize a family relationship or to provide legal recognition for a long-standing parent-child relationship.
There are several reasons why an adult may want to be adopted:
Legal benefits: Adoption can offer certain legal benefits, such as inheritance rights, access to medical records, and eligibility for certain government benefits.
Emotional fulfillment: An adult may desire to be adopted as a way to fulfill a need for emotional connection and belonging. Adoption can provide a sense of family and can help fill a void left by a lack of a close relationship with biological parents or family members.
Cultural or religious reasons: In some cultures or religions, adoption is seen as a way to create or expand family ties. An adult may wish to be adopted in order to honor these cultural or religious beliefs.
Healing from past trauma: In some cases, adoption may be seen as a way to heal from past traumas related to childhood or family experiences. Being adopted can provide a fresh start and a sense of security and stability.
To be eligible for adult adoption in California, the adoptee must be at least 18 years old and must consent to the adoption. The consent of the biological parents is not required for adult adoption, but the adoptee must obtain the consent of their spouse, if applicable.
The process for adult adoption in California involves filing a petition with the court and obtaining a hearing date. At the hearing, the judge will review the petition and ensure that all legal requirements have been met. If the judge approves the petition, an adoption order will be issued, and the adoptee’s name will be changed to reflect their new legal status as the adopted child of the adoptive parent.
It’s important to note that the decision to be adopted as an adult is a deeply personal one and may involve complex emotions and considerations. If you are interested in learning more about the adult adoption process, please contact Mioni Family Law and we would be happy to assist you.