Boston Adult Adoption Lawyers
At Turco Legal, we understand that adult adoption is a meaningful legal step for many families. Our Boston-based team provides knowledgeable and thoughtful guidance throughout the adoption process, ensuring clarity and confidence at every stage. In Massachusetts, adult adoption is an option under specific legal conditions. If you are considering this path and have questions, we are here to help. Contact us for a confidential consultation with an experienced adoption attorney.
Understanding Adult Adoption
Adult adoption allows one adult to legally adopt another, establishing a parent-child relationship in the eyes of the law. While this process is more common than many realize, it requires careful legal consideration. People pursue adult adoption for a variety of reasons—some personal, others practical. It can serve as a way to formalize an existing bond, reinforce family ties, or provide inheritance rights equivalent to those of a biological child.
Adult Adoption Laws in Massachusetts
While similar to the adoption of a minor in some respects, adult adoption in Massachusetts follows distinct legal requirements. A court must review and approve the adoption petition, ensuring compliance with state law. Here are key factors to consider:
- Parental Fitness and Best Interests Standard Do Not Apply: Unlike minor adoptions, courts do not evaluate parental fitness or consider the “best interests of the child” standard in adult adoptions.
- Age and Relationship Restrictions: The adoptive parent must be older than the adult they seek to adopt. Additionally, spouses cannot adopt each other.
- Spousal Consent May Be Required: If the adoptive parent is married, their spouse is generally required to join the petition, with limited exceptions.
- Adoptee Consent Is Essential: The adult being adopted must provide consent for the adoption to proceed.
- Affidavit of Relationship: Massachusetts law requires a statement confirming the existence of a genuine parent-child relationship as the basis for the adoption.
If you are considering an adult adoption in Boston—whether as the parent or the child—it is normal to have a lot of questions. A Boston family lawyer with experience handling adult adoption cases can guide you through the legal process, including explaining the implications, gathering all of the information that you need, and completing the adoption paperwork.
Navigating the Legal Process
Adult adoption involves legal formalities that must be handled with precision. An experienced family law attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring that all necessary documents are in order and that your adoption proceeds smoothly.
At Turco Legal, we assist clients with:
Understanding the legal and personal implications of adult adoption;
Preparing and filing the required legal documents;
Addressing any challenges that may arise during the adoption process; and
Ensuring compliance with Massachusetts adoption laws.
Contact a Boston Adult Adoption Attorney
If you are considering adult adoption, Turco Legal is here to provide clear guidance and reliable legal support. Contact us at (617) 657-4878 to schedule a confidential consultation. We assist clients throughout Boston, Suffolk County, and surrounding areas.