Can One Adopt An Adult Or Married Minor?

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Can One Adopt An Adult Or Married Minor?

The adoption of an adult or a married minor is a much less complicated procedure than adopting an unmarried minor. For an adult this is because the prospective child is capable of consenting to the adoption himself. Of course, as with other adoptions, the prospective adoptive parent must obtain the consent of his spouse prior to adopting an adult or married minor. Similarly, the person to be adopted must also obtain consent from his or her spouse, in the event either is married, prior to being adopted. After the adoption, the adopted child and the adoptive parent will maintain the legal relationship as parent and child and have all the rights and be subject to all of the duties of that relationship from then on. The procedure for an adult adoption generally commences with the preparation of an adoption agreement which is executed by the prospective adoptive parent and the prospective adoptee, and which establishes the nature of the adoption and the consent of all parties thereto. Thereafter the prospective adoptive parent and adoptee will file a petition for approval in the court. The matter is then set for hearing and notice is given to all interested parties. The court is free to examine all facts and circumstances surrounding this adoption and either approves the adoption or not.

Other Massachusetts Adoption FAQs

Q: Is Consent Of The Natural Parents Required?
A: Such consent is usually required from the natural parents, but the court can dispense with consent if there are good reasons. No consent may be obtained until at … More
Q: Can A Consent Be Withdrawn?
A: Any person who has given consent can change her or his mind up to 21 days after giving such consent, but only if such revocation is in writing and delivered to the … More
Q: When Would Consent Of The Child Be Required?
A: The child's consent will be required if the child is 12 years of age or over.
Q: What Notification Is Required When A Child Is Placed For Adoption?
A: Both the person who intends to receive the child and the person who intend to place the child for adoption must, at least 14 days before such receipt or placement of … More
Q: When May An Application For Adoption Be Made?
A: An application, made in the prescribed form, may be made after the expiration of six months from the date on which the child was placed with the prospective adoptive … More
Q: What Documentation Must Be Presented With An Application For Adoption?
A: The documentation listed below, as may be applicable, will be required: an affidavit from the applicant which includes the applicant's name, age, address and marital … More
Q: What Is The Effect Of An Adoption Order?
A: For all purposes, when an adoption order is made, the adopted child is the child of the adopting parent and the adopting parent is parent and guardian of the adopted … More
Q: Would A Person Be Able To Find His Natural Birth Parents Or Brothers Or Sisters?
A: In some cases, but not always. All records relating to an adoption order that are in the custody of the director (of Child and Family Services); a child and family … More