[WA] How do I legally adopt an adult as my child, keeping their birth name, and what documents are required?

Lexi, Chatbot

I understand that navigating the adoption process can be complex. Have you already established a relationship with the adult you wish to adopt?

Lexi, Chatbot

Are there any specific legal requirements or concerns you are aware of regarding this adoption in Washington State?

Lexi, Chatbot

Is there anything else the family lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they'll be able to help with your adult adoption.

Richard

Hello. My name is Richard and I have been a licensed attorney for over 25 years and hope to be of assistance. Please be advised that this website is for information purposes only and I cannot formally represent customers of this website or perform actual legal services on your behalf. I know your question is important and I’m working on typing an answer to your question now. Sometimes responses and replies take time, and we ask you to be courteous and patient to allow the expert to type your answers to you and also to others. Could you tell me more about any specific concerns or requirements you might have?

Richard

Thanks for sharing that. Since you're looking to adopt an adult in Washington State, could you tell me if there are any specific reasons or circumstances for this adoption? This might help in understanding any additional requirements.

Richard

In Washington State, adult adoption is relatively straightforward compared to adoption of a minor. Here’s how the process generally works:

Eligibility (WA Rev Code § 26.33.140)

• The person being adopted must be 18 years or older.
• Only the consent of the adult adoptee and the adopting parent(s) is required.
• The adoptee may keep their birth name (as in your case) or request a legal name change as part of the process.

Required Documents. You will typically need to prepare and file the following in the Superior Court of the county where you or the adoptee reside:

• Petition for Adoption of an Adult – This asks the court to approve the adoption. (WA Rev Code § 26.33.030)
• Consent of the Adult Being Adopted – A written, signed statement by the adoptee agreeing to the adoption. (WA Rev Code § 26.33.16)
• Proposed Adoption Decree – The order the judge will sign if the adoption is granted. (WA Rev Code § 26.33.240)
• Some counties provide local templates for these forms, while in others you may need to draft them.

Procedure

1. File the petition with the Superior Court clerk. Filing fees apply (often similar to other family law filings).
2. Schedule a hearing – The court will set a short hearing date.
3. Attend the hearing – Both you and the adult adoptee appear before the judge. The judge will confirm consent and ensure the adoption is voluntary.
4. Court approval – If granted, the judge signs the decree, and the adoption is legally recognized.

Legal Effects

• The adoptee is treated as your legal child for all purposes under Washington law.
• Parental rights of the adoptee’s biological parents are not automatically terminated, but legally you gain the full parent-child relationship (inheritance rights, etc.).
• Since the adoptee is keeping her birth name, you do not need to request a name change order.

Richard

In Kitsap County, you can usually find the necessary forms for adult adoption on the Kitsap County Superior Court's website. They often have downloadable forms and instructions available for various legal processes, including adoption. If you can't find them online, you might also consider visiting the courthouse in person or contacting the court clerk's office for assistance. They can guide you on how to obtain the correct forms and any additional steps you might need to take.

Richard

I hope I was able to help resolve your issue! If you have any other questions, feel free to ask.