Can I adopt my adult stepchild without telling the biological parent in Pennsylvania?

Yes! For adult adoption (age 18+), the biological parent does NOT need to be notified, does NOT need to consent, and does NOT need to know the adoption is happening.

How adult adoption works in Pennsylvania:

• The only consent required is from the adult being adopted
• No biological parent notification
• No biological parent consent
• No service of process on anyone
• No home study, no background check
• Filed in Orphans' Court
• Timeline: 4-8 weeks

Why this matters:

• Many adult stepchildren want adoption but feared the biological parent's reaction
• The biological parent has no legal right to be involved in an adult adoption
• There is no notification requirement — the biological parent may never know
• This is completely legal and proper

Common scenarios:

• "My stepfather raised me but my bio father would make a scene if he found out"
• "I'm 45 and I want to honor my stepmom who has been my real mother"
• "The biological parent was abusive and I don't want them involved in any way"

Cost: $349 | Timeline: 4-8 weeks

Adult adoption is private, simple, and deeply meaningful. Start at stepparentadoption360.com/questionnaire.