Decree of Adult Adoption - County of Sonoma, California

Decree of Adult Adoption is a legal document that was released by the Superior Court - County of Sonoma, California - a government authority operating within California. The form may be used strictly within County of Sonoma.

FAQ

Q: What is an Adult Adoption?A: An Adult Adoption is a legal process where one person adopts another person who is over the age of 18.

Q: Why would someone choose to do an Adult Adoption?A: There are various reasons why someone would choose to do an Adult Adoption, such as establishing a legal parent-child relationship, inheritance purposes, or emotional and familial bonds.

Q: What is the process for an Adult Adoption in Sonoma County, California?A: The process for an Adult Adoption in Sonoma County, California involves filing a petition with the court, attending a hearing, and obtaining a Decree of Adult Adoption.

Q: Do both parties involved in the Adult Adoption need to consent?A: Yes, both the adopting party and the person being adopted must consent to the Adult Adoption.

Q: Are there any specific requirements for an Adult Adoption in Sonoma County?A: Yes, there are certain requirements, such as the adopting party must be at least 10 years older than the person being adopted, and the person being adopted must not be married.

Q: Does an Adult Adoption sever the person's existing legal relationships?A: No, an Adult Adoption does not sever any existing legal relationships, such as relationships with biological or legal parents.

Q: Can an Adult Adoption be contested?A: In some cases, an Adult Adoption can be contested, but it generally requires valid legal grounds and proof to challenge the validity of the adoption.

Q: Is an attorney required for an Adult Adoption in Sonoma County?A: While it is not required to have an attorney, it is highly recommended to consult with an attorney who specializes in family law to ensure all legal requirements are met and the process is handled correctly.

Q: How long does the Adult Adoption process usually take?A: The length of the Adult Adoption process can vary but generally takes several months from the filing of the petition to the issuance of the Decree of Adult Adoption.

Q: Does an Adult Adoption change the person's name?A: No, an Adult Adoption does not automatically change the person's name. If the person being adopted wishes to change their name, they must go through a separate legal name change process.