How do I know if I'm eligible for stepparent adoption in Washington?

You are likely eligible for stepparent adoption in Washington if you are at least 18, legally competent, and can pass a criminal background check. Washington has no minimum residency period and does not specify a minimum length of marriage. Here is how the main pieces fit together.

Your age. Any person who is legally competent and 18 or older may be an adoptive parent (RCW 26.33.140). No age gap between you and the child is stated.

Residency. Washington sets no minimum residency period (RCW 26.33.030). Your case is filed in the Superior Court, and the clerk in your county can confirm which county is the right one for your family.

Marriage. Washington doesn't specify a minimum marriage duration, so a recent marriage is not a set barrier. If you have questions about how your particular marriage or family situation fits, the Superior Court clerk can confirm.

Background check. Washington requires criminal background checks for adoptive parents. If you have a record and aren't sure how it might be viewed, an attorney can advise you on your specific history.

The other parent. This is usually the biggest question.

• If the other parent is willing, their consent is the simplest route.
• If they haven't been involved, abandonment may apply (RCW § 26.33.120). Washington sets no fixed number of months. The court looks at the parent's overall conduct.
• Sporadic child support doesn't prevent an abandonment finding if the parent hasn't maintained meaningful contact with the child. The court looks at the overall relationship, not just money.
• If the other parent is deceased, has had rights ended by a prior order, or is likely to contest the adoption, the details depend on your facts. Confirm those with the Superior Court clerk or an attorney.

The child's consent. A child who is 14 or older has a consent role (RCW § 26.33.160). If your child is younger than 14, the clerk can tell you how that is handled in your county.

Home study. Washington does not waive the home study across the board for stepparent adoptions (RCW 26.33.220). Ask the clerk whether it applies to your situation.