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Knowledge Base / After the Adoption

After the Adoption

Birth certificates, name changes, sealed records and inheritance.

Answers by state

Choose a question, then your state

These answers change with each state's law, so every state has its own guide.

How do I get a copy of the adoption order?

What records are sealed after adoption?

Is stepparent adoption public record?

Every state

Guides that apply wherever you live

Can I change my stepchild's first name during adoption?Can I hyphenate my stepchild's last name during adoption?Can my stepchild keep their current last name after adoption?Can the adopted child choose to undo the adoption when they turn 18?Can the biological parent request visitation after adoption?Do my parents become legal grandparents after I adopt my stepchild?Does a blank father entry on the birth certificate simplify stepparent adoption?Does my adopted stepchild inherit from me automatically?How do I get a new birth certificate after stepparent adoption?How does adoption affect inheritance and estate planning?My husband was listed as father on the birth certificate but he's not the biological father — what does this mean for adoption?What happens to my parental rights if I divorce after adopting my stepchild?What rights does a stepparent gain after adoption?Will my adopted stepchild automatically get my last name?Will my child get a new birth certificate after adoption?

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