Adoption can be one of the most gratifying experiences for any family—particularly when it solidifies an already-cherished bond. In Connecticut, stepparent and adult adoptions are governed by laws that ensure a smooth legal process, especially when you have the proper guidance. The best part? You don’t need to hire an expensive attorney. At StepparentAdoptionForms, we’ve helped thousands of families across the country complete their adoptions quickly, easily, and affordably.
I. Overview of Connecticut Adoption Laws
In Connecticut, adoption statutes primarily fall under Connecticut General Statutes (C.G.S.) Title 45a, particularly Sections 45a-727 through 45a-737. These statutes outline:
- Who Can Adopt: Generally, any adult meeting Connecticut’s residency requirements may petition to adopt.
- Consent: The non-custodial parent’s consent or a court order terminating their parental rights is required for a stepparent adoption.
- Court Jurisdiction: Most adoptions are finalized in Connecticut Probate Courts, which have authority over adoption matters.
By understanding the basics, you’ll start your adoption journey feeling more confident and prepared.
II. Stepparent Adoption in Connecticut: Key Steps
A. Filing the Adoption Petition
Your first step is filing a Petition for Adoption with the Probate Court in the district where you reside or where the child resides. This document formally initiates the adoption process.
Our Role: We prepare the precise forms your local Probate Court expects, ensuring every requirement is met. From your initial questionnaire to the final signature, our legal team—backed by decades of experience—handles the paperwork so you can file with confidence.
B. Serving Notice and Consent
- Consent from the Other Parent: If the child’s other biological parent is known and accessible, they must either consent to the adoption or have their rights terminated for reasons such as abandonment or neglect (C.G.S. § 45a-717).
- Child’s Consent: In Connecticut, children 12 years of age or older typically sign a statement agreeing to the adoption if they understand its significance.
If the other parent cannot be located, you may proceed with service by publication, as permitted by the court, which involves placing notices in a local newspaper.
C. Investigation or Background Checks
Depending on the circumstances, the court may require a brief investigation or criminal background check for the adopting stepparent to ensure no history of child-related offenses. Generally, Connecticut Probate Courts streamline this part of the process for stepparent adoptions, especially if the child has been living in a stable environment.
D. Final Hearing
Once consent (or termination of parental rights) is in place and any court-ordered review is completed, the Probate Court schedules a final hearing. At this hearing, the judge will:
- Verify all required documents are in order.
- Ensure the adoption aligns with the child’s best interests.
- Sign the official Decree of Adoption, legally recognizing you as the child’s parent.
E. Issuance of a New Birth Certificate
Following the final decree, the court notifies the Connecticut Department of Public Health, Vital Records Section. A new birth certificate is then issued, listing you as the legal parent and reflecting any name change if applicable.
III. Adult Adoption: A Simpler Process
For those looking to adopt an adult, Connecticut law (C.G.S. § 45a-734) allows such adoptions when both parties consent. This route is often used to formalize long-standing relationships or ensure inheritance and other legal benefits.
Key Points for Adult Adoption:
- Mutual Agreement: The adoptee (over 18) must provide written consent.
- Petition Filing: The petitioner files an Adult Adoption Petition at the Probate Court.
- Minimal Requirements: Typically, there’s no need to terminate anyone’s parental rights or conduct a home study.
- Final Decree: After a short hearing, if the judge is satisfied, a new birth certificate will be issued at the adoptee’s request.
Much like stepparent adoptions, adult adoptions can often be completed in just a couple of months once all paperwork is properly filed.
IV. Why Choose StepparentAdoptionForms?
1. Cost-Effective
Traditional attorney fees for adoption in Connecticut can easily reach into the thousands. Our flat fee is $325, plus standard court fees (typically $250–$400). This transparent, affordable approach keeps you in control of your expenses.
2. Comprehensive Support
We’re not just a forms provider. With over two decades of experience and 20,000+ successful adoptions, our legal department knows exactly what the Connecticut courts expect. From helping you serve notice on the other parent to clarifying local court deadlines, we ensure you’re never left guessing.
3. Clear, Step-by-Step Guidance
After you complete our online questionnaire, we tailor every court form and instruction to your specific situation. Our easy-to-follow guidelines will walk you through:
- Petition filing
- Consent or termination documentation
- Setting up and attending your final hearing
- Obtaining the new birth certificate
4. Time Savings
Handling the adoption on your own can actually speed up the process. You won’t need to wait for an attorney’s schedule to clear. Many of our Connecticut families finalize their stepparent or adult adoption in just a few months.
V. Get Started Today
Start your Stepparent Adoption
Join thousands of families in Connecicut who have successfully completed their stepparent adoption.
Start your Adult Adoption
Let us help you unify your family. Click the button below to start your adult adoption in Connecticut.
Eager to establish legal parenthood for your stepchild or formalize a bond with an adult adoptee? Let us help. Our process is simple:
- Complete the Questionnaire
Provide the details about your family and circumstances. - Receive Your Customized Documents
We’ll prepare and email (or mail) your Connecticut adoption forms, along with thorough instructions. - File & Follow Through
File your documents in the appropriate Probate Court, serve notice if needed, and attend the final hearing. - Celebrate Your New Family Status
Once the judge signs the final decree, you’ll receive a new birth certificate and the lifelong peace of mind that comes with a legally recognized family bond.
VI. Conclusion
Connecticut offers a clear legal framework for both stepparent and adult adoption, ensuring families can grow without unnecessary stress or expense. By choosing a DIY path with StepparentAdoptionForms, you gain control over the timeline and save thousands of dollars, all with the confidence that experienced professionals have your back.
Take the first step toward a new family chapter—start your Connecticut adoption with us today!
Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult the Connecticut Probate Court or a licensed attorney for details specific to your situation.
