Adult adoptions refer to instances when the adoptee is 18 years of age or older. There are several reasons why people might want to legally become the parent or child of a non-biologically related person after the prospective adoptee is 18. An adult adoption can help the adoptee secure inheritance rights or make an existing relationship official. It is important to note that as an adult, the adoptee will usually not have any rights to financial support. If you live in the Safety Harbor area and are considering adopting a legal adult, the law office of Julie Beth Jouben, P.A. can help.
Common Reasons for Adult Adoptions
- To secure inheritance rights. One of the most common reasons for adopting a person over 18 is to secure inheritance rights for said person. For example, if Jane Doe wishes to pass on her estate in Safety Harbor to an unrelated person over the age of 18, then adult adoptions are a good choice.
- To make an existing relationship official. Often times, step-parents would love to adopt their step-child but the child’s biological parent will not agree. Once the child becomes an adult, the birth parent’s consent to an adoption is not necessary. Former foster parents and foster children also may pursue an adult adoption.
- To care for a disabled or incapacitated adult. By adopting someone with diminished capacity, whether physical or mental, the “adopter” could be able to make medical and life decisions for the adoptee. This can benefit family members who are not the biological parents of the disabled adult but would like to become their legal caretakers.
Adult Adoptions and Immigration
You can legally adopt an adult from another country if you wish. Despite rumors to the contrary, there are no U.S. immigration benefits for adults who have been adopted by U.S. citizens. Depending upon your reasons for the adoption, your best course of action would be to consult a Safety Harbor attorney with experience in Florida adult adoptions and immigration matters to gain a comprehensive understanding of your options.
Call Julie Beth Jouben, P.A.
Whether you are in the Safety Harbor area or anywhere else in the United States, difficulties can arise when navigating the world of adult adoptions. For professional legal advice, contact Julie Beth Jouben, P.A. at our office.