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JDF496

How to Adopt an Adult

Colorado · Colorado Judicial Branch · Effective May 1, 2025

This guide explains the steps for adopting an adult and lists the forms needed for the process. It tells the filer where to file the paperwork and what forms to use at different stages.

Open the official PDFfrom Colorado Judicial Branch

Where this fits in a case

General & info

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

This guide is used by people who are starting the process of adopting an adult. It outlines the required paperwork and steps from beginning to end.

Either party may file.

Common questions

Who should file this form?
The guide provides instructions for the Petitioner (the adoptive parent) and the Respondent (the adult to be adopted).
Are there fees involved?
The guide mentions a Filing Fee of $197 and a Certified Copy fee of $20, and also lists forms for requesting a Fee Waiver.
What is the difference between the Petition and the Summons?
The Petition is the starting paperwork, and the Summons is used to formally notify the Respondent that they are part of the case.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 10, 2026. The current version took effect May 1, 2025.

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