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ADOPT-050-INFOOptional

How to Adopt a Child in California

California · Judicial Council of California · Effective January 1, 2026

This form is an information guide that explains the different types of adoptions available in California and outlines the general steps and forms needed for each type. It provides general information and directs users to specific resources for detailed instructions.

The court describes it as: Explains the different types of adoptions and what forms to complete for each type of adoption. Also includes steps necessary to complete each type of adoption.

Open the official PDFfrom Judicial Council of California

Where this fits in a case

General & info

Information / general use — not tied to one step of a case

This guide is used by anyone who needs general information about the process of adopting a child in California. It does not complete the adoption process itself.

Either party may file.

Official instructions

How-to guides published by the court for this form.

Common questions

What is this form?
This form is an information sheet that explains the different types of adoptions and the general steps needed for each one. It does not replace actual court forms.
Do I need to hire a lawyer?
The form advises users to seek legal advice about their family's options before starting any adoption process.
What forms are mentioned for stepparent adoptions?
For stepparent adoptions, the guide mentions forms like ADOPT-203, ADOPT-210, and ADOPT-215, among others.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 9, 2026. The current version took effect January 1, 2026.

Related forms

  • ADOPT-200

    Adoption Request

    This form is used to tell the court who is asking for an adoption and what kind of adoption is being requested. It asks for information about the adopting parents, the child, and the type of adoption.

    MandatoryFillable PDF4 translations
  • ADOPT-203

    Stepparent Adoption Request

    This form is used to start a case asking the court to approve a stepparent adoption. It asks for information about the adopting parent, the child, and details about the adoption itself.

    MandatoryFillable PDF4 translations
  • ADOPT-205

    Declaration Confirming Parentage in Stepparent Adoption

    This form is a declaration used to tell the court that a stepparent is adopting a child whose birth parent is their spouse or domestic partner. It asks for details about the relationship between the parents and how the child was conceived.

    OptionalFillable PDF
  • ADOPT-206

    Declaration Confirming Parentage in Stepparent Adoption: Gestational Surrogacy

    This form is a declaration used to tell the court that a stepparent is adopting a child whose parentage was established through gestational surrogacy. It requires information about the relationship between the legal parent and the adopting parent.

    OptionalFillable PDF
  • ADOPT-210

    Adoption Agreement

    This form is an Adoption Agreement that records the agreement of the adopting parent(s), the natural parent(s), and the child regarding an adoption. It collects names, dates, and signatures from all involved parties.

    MandatoryFillable PDF4 translations
  • ADOPT-215

    Adoption Order

    This form is used to officially record the court's decision about an adoption. It asks for details about the adopting parents, the child, and the hearing that took place.

    MandatoryFillable PDF4 translations
  • FL-311-INFO

    What Are Visitation or Parenting Time Orders? (Family Law)

    This form explains different types of court orders for how much time children will spend with each parent. It describes options like scheduled visits, open plans, and supervised visits.

    OptionalFillable PDF4 translations
  • FL-313-INFO

    Child Custody Information Sheet—Recommending Counseling

    This sheet gives general information about child custody and parenting time matters. It explains what a parenting plan is and describes the process of child custody recommending counseling when parents cannot agree on a plan.

    OptionalFillable PDF4 translations