Stepparent Adoption Services

To begin on a Stepparent/Domestic Partner Adoption call us at 415-359-2495 or Contact Adoption Connection.

What is a stepparent adoption?

When one member of a married couple has a child by a previous marriage, relationship, or by single parent adoption: the new (step) parent can adopt the child through a simple procedure called Stepparent Adoption which grants the new parent full legal rights to the child. (The rights of a non-custodial parent, if any, must be terminated prior to adoption.)

What is a domestic partner adoption?

Similar to stepparent adoption, this process is for domestic partners who have a child who is legally and/or biologically related to only one partner. Usually this applies to same-sex couples with an adopted or biological child.

Why is a stepparent/domestic partner adoption important?

If two adults are parenting a child, it is in the family’s best interest that both parents have full legal rights to their child. Often, the child’s medical and social security benefits will derive from the parent who is not biologically related. Sometimes, medical consent and the right to travel with the non-legal parent can be questioned without a legal adoption. A California Stepparent/Domestic Partner Adoption is recognized in all 50 states.

When should it be done?

Adoption Connection can complete the adoption process as soon as possible after the child’s birth, or a new marriage. Prospective parents can begin the process prior to the child's birth but the process cannot be completed until after a child is born.

In what areas of Northern California are you licensed for this service?

One of our caseworkers can currently prepare Social Service Reports for families living in: Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Sonoma counties only.

We can refer you to the appropriate agency in other northern California counties.

Do I need an attorney to complete a stepparent adoption in California?

When there is no living legal parent whose rights need to be terminated, the stepparent adoption process may be completed without the assistance of an attorney. An attorney is usually recommended in cases where there is a living legal parent whose parental rights need to be terminated. Adoption Connection can refer you to an attorney who can prepare the legal documents required by the court of your California county. Please contact us for referrals or questions.

What documents are required to prepare the Social Service Report?

Verification of marital or domestic partner status, financial information, and consent by any other parent to the child will be required.

Although each county has varying requirements, most will ask for information regarding home and work, personal references, and criminal clearances.

What else is involved?

The courts require both parents and the child to have a home visit (or meeting in the home) with the social worker. Usually, this meeting involves verifying the information received. There is no home inspection required, and the meeting usually lasts under one hour.

How long does it take Adoption Connection to complete the report?

After we have received all necessary documentation, your caseworker will call to schedule a homevisit, usually within 15 working days. We will then file the Social Service Report with the court in your county. (Your court date to finalize the adoption is dependent upon the court calendar.)

To get started, call us at 415-359-2495 or Contact Adoption Connection.