Adult adoption with last name change in illinois

Perfect — adult adoption in Illinois is one of the simpler processes, and yes, you can absolutely include a name change.

Here's what you need to know for Illinois:

Timeline: About 4 to 6 weeks from filing to finalization. Adult adoptions move much faster than minor child adoptions.

Requirements:

• The adult adoptee (your stepchild) must consent — that's it. No consent needed from the other biological parent.
• No home study required
• No background check required
• No court investigation — it's streamlined

Name Change: The name change is included as part of the adoption. You indicate the new name in the adoption petition, and when the court finalizes the adoption, the name change is part of the final order. It all happens in one proceeding — you don't file separately for the name change.

Court: You'll file in the Circuit Court of the county where you reside (or where the adoptee resides).

Filing fee: Approximately $200-$400 depending on your specific county (Cook County tends to be on the higher end).

What happens: You file the petition, there's a hearing (often these are brief and can be done virtually), and the judge issues the final order. The adoptee gets a new birth certificate listing you as the parent, with their new name.

What you'll receive from us:

• Petition for Adoption
• Consent forms
• Name change documents
• Order/Decree of Adoption
• New birth certificate application
• Step-by-step filing instructions specific to your Illinois county

When you're ready to move forward, the questionnaire at stepparentadoption360.com/questionnaire takes about 15 minutes, and we'll have your documents prepared within 24 hours.

Do you have any questions about the process or what happens at the hearing?