By: LINDSEY O’NEILL, ESQ.
California is one of the states that has been pretty progressive in adoption law and, as such, is a popular adoption state. Many families are seeking information about how to adopt a child in California, including step-parent and domestic partner adoptions. Below are some resources about the basics to help you familiarize yourself with the process. However, as there are sometimes pretty complicated issues involved in adoption, you may decide at some point to seek assistance from an adoption attorney.
General Resources regarding adoption:
The Adoption Home Study Process – Factsheet for Families
Background Checks for Prospective Adoptive Parents
Court Jurisdiction and Venue for Adoption Petitions
California-specific adoption resources:
Directory of California Adoption Agencies
How To Adopt a Child in California
Agreement Regarding Contact After Adoption
Request to: Enforce, Change, End Contact After Adoption Agreement
Disability Insurance (DI) and Paid Family Leave (PFL) for New Adoptive Parents
You can also browse LawInfo’s Free Legal Resource Center for comprehensive information about adoption and other family law matters including frequently asked questions, forms, legal guides, brochures, videos, and more! You can also find an attorney right in your area who focuses on adoption law.
Good luck!
