How long does stepparent adoption take in Washington DC?

Once you file the documents with the Superior Court in Washington DC:

• Minor child adoption: Typically 3-6 months from filing to finalization
• Adult adoption (18+): Usually faster — typically 4-8 weeks

Before filing, here's what happens:

• You complete our questionnaire (takes about 10–15 minutes)
• We prepare all your customized documents within 24 hours
• You review, sign, and file them with your local Superior Court

The background check typically takes 3–4 weeks to come back, but this happens during the waiting period, so it doesn't add extra time. Many Washington DC courts now offer virtual hearings for finalization, making the process even easier.