What is adoption?
Adoption is the legal process by which a person becomes a lawful member of a family different from their birth family. Once a final order of adoption has been …
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Are there different types of adoption?
Adoptions takes place in various forms, and are generally classified as independent, agency, step parent, relative placement, and adult adoption. Independent …
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Who may adopt?
Any adult living in California may file a petition to adopt a child who is at least ten years younger than the petitioner. Married couples are most likely to …
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What is the process of adoption? How is it started?
All prospective persons wishing to adopt must first participate in a full investigation, which includes an assessment completed by a juvenile court officer, or a …
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How does custody take place?
The adoptive family does not assume physical custody of the child until a court of law issues an order transferring probationary custody to the adoptive …
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Do prospective adopters need an attorney?
As adoption is a legal action, and the results are a lifelong commitment, prospective adopters are encouraged, and often court ordered, to work closely with an …
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