Boston Adult Adoption Lawyer
At Turco Legal, our Boston adult adoption lawyer is an experienced, knowledgeable advocate for clients. We put an emphasis on personalized representation in all types of family law matters. In Massachusetts, it is possible to adopt an adult—but certain criteria must be met. If you have any questions about adult adoption in Massachusetts, we are here to help. For your fully private, no obligation initial consultation with a Boston adoption attorney, please contact us today.
What Is an Adult Adoption?
Adult adoption is a form of adoption whereby one adult adopts another. It is far more common than many people realize and it is an available option in most U.S. states, including in Massachusetts. Through adult adoption, a parent-child relationship can be created where—at least in the eyes of the law—one did not previously exist. There are both personal and practical reasons to consider adult adoption. Many people who pursue adult adoption do so because it is a way to strengthen and formalize a relationship that already exists. There are also some tangible legal ramifications. For example, the inheritance rights of the adult child who is adopted may change. They will become the lawful heir of the adoptive parent—just the same as any biological child.
An Overview of Adult Adoption Laws in Massachusetts
In many ways, the process for adopting an adult in Massachusetts is similar to the process for adopting a child. A petition still must be completed and submitted to the appropriate court. A Massachusetts court will not “rubber stamp” the petition for an adult adoption. Even though no party is a minor, there are still some strict requirements that must be met. Here are some of the most important things to know about the adult adoption laws in Massachusetts.
- Parental Fitness/Best Interests of the Child Is Not a Factor: When a minor is being adopted, a Massachusetts court may need to evaluate parental fitness and will need to determine that an adoption of the minor by the petitioner(s) is in the best interests of the child. With adult adoption, parental fitness and the best interests of the child standard are no longer issues.
- Adoptive Child Must Be Younger (Cannot Be the Adoptee’s Spouse): There are some limitations on which adults can adopt other adults in Massachusetts. The adoptive parent must be older than the adult they are seeking to adopt. Further, you cannot adopt your spouse.
- Spouse of Prospective Adoptive Parent Typically Must Join the Adoption: If the prospective adoptive parent is married, then their spouse is generally required to join the adult adoption process in Massachusetts. There are some circumstances, however, in which the prospective adoptive parent’s spouse does not need to join the adoption petition.
- Adoptee Adult Must Give Consent: The prospective adoptive child must consent to being adopted. If the prospective adoptee does not provide their consent, then no adult adoption can occur.
- A Reason Must Be Given for an Adult Adoption: With adult adoption, Massachusetts requires an affidavit from the parties that acknowledges and explains the existence of a parent-child relationship between them. In effect, the parties must attest that there is an actual parent-child relationship and that is why adoption is being pursued.
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.
How Our Boston Adult Adoption Lawyer Can Help
Adult adoptions can be complicated. A mistake in the paperwork could cause major delays or even a denial of an adoption. At Turco Legal, we have the specialized skills and family law experience to help you and your loved ones navigate the process. When you reach out to our Boston law office, you will be able to connect with a Boston adult adoption attorney who can:
- Answer your questions and explain your options during a confidential case evaluation;
- Help you gather all of the documents and records that you need to move forward;
- Handle the legal paperwork for an adult adoption; and,
- Take action to help you and your family overcome any obstacles that might come up.
Call Our Boston Adult Adoption Attorney Today
At Turco Legal, our Boston adult adoption lawyer is a skilled, experienced, and effective advocate for clients. If you need help with adult adoption, we are here for you. Contact us at (978) 225-9030 to arrange a strictly private initial consultation with a top-rated family lawyer. We provide adult adoption services in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond.