ADULT ADOPTOIN
 

Many people are not aware that an adult may be adopted by another adult.  Mark Iverson has extensive experience assisting families complete an adult adoption.

What is an adult adoption?
When there is an adult that plays a signifiicant role in a child's life, the child, upon becoming an adult, may desire to formally recognize the parent/child relationship by completing an adult adoption. The adoption proceeding is a very joyous occasion which celebrates a relationship that, in many cases, has existed for many years.

Legal Process in Washington;
Parental rights of the birthparents are not terminated. A new birth certificate is issued with the adoptive parent(s) listed as the parent.  The adult adoptee may also change their name if they choose to do so.

It is not necessary to give notice to the birthparents that an adoption is taking place.  Some adult adoptees choose to inform their birthparents of the legal relationship established with their adoptive parent, but such notice is voluntary.

Legal Process in Idaho:
Adult adoption is also recognized in the state of Idaho. The prospective adoptive parent must show the existence of a parent/child relationship for more than one year while the adult adoptee was a minor or, if less than one year, show through an investigation that a substantial family relationship has been created. As in Washington no notice to the birthparents is necessary because parental rights are not terminated.  And a new birth certificate is issued.

Free Consultation;
If you are interested in learning more about an adult adoption please contact us at 509-462-3678 or 800-338-8273 or via email at mark@adoptionlegalservices.org.