Any info on stepparent adoption in California.?

Question

My husband has 2 children and his ex-wife wants her new husband to adopt them since we are planning on moving out of state. Does anyone know about the procedures and how much the court fees are per child. Any info you have would be helpful.

Answer 1

This may vary from county to county.  I live in Orange County.  It is a somewhat lengthy process, but all your husband has to do is consent.  Most of the work will be done by the mother and step father of the children.

The filing fee is $20 per child, plus a $700 investigation fee.  So, for 2 children, the total will be $740.  The mother will have to submit a huge packet of information and after that is complete, a social worker will investigate.  The new husband will be checked out and if he is a fit parent, the adoption will be approved.

Answer 2

For the step-dad to adopt them, your husband would have to give up all legal and parental rights. This includes no visits unless the other family feels generous. No say in anything having to do with the kids.  If something were to happen to the ex and her husband, your husband would not be considered next of kin. Step-dads family would and the ex's would but not your husband unless there was a legal document drawn stating he gets them back.

When step-dad adopts he can have their name changed.

When my dad adopted my half-brother, his birth dad was 3 years behind on child support. His birth dad was happy to sign him away because he would no longer owe any $ for the past or future. My dad had my brothers name changed to his. When he did this it also changed my brothers birth certificate. It now has my dad as the birth father. I learned this going through my moms things after her death.

I would recommend contacting an adoption lawyer for some California answers. The first consult is usually free.