What are the most common mistakes families make with stepparent adoption in Connecticut?

The most common mistakes in a Connecticut stepparent adoption are filing in the wrong place, misunderstanding what the law does and doesn't require, and skipping the details that depend on your family's facts. Here is what to watch for.

Assuming there is a residency waiting period. Connecticut sets no minimum residency period under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-727. You don't need to wait before filing, so holding off for a milestone that doesn't exist only delays your family.

Believing abandonment has a countdown. Connecticut has no fixed number of months. Abandonment depends on the other parent's overall conduct (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-717). Counting months and assuming you "qualify" on a certain date is a mistake. Keep a clear record of contact, support and attempts to reach out. If the other parent disagrees or can't be found, the outcome depends on your facts, so ask the Probate Court clerk or an attorney about that specific situation.

Overlooking the child's voice. Connecticut's child consent age is 12 (Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-724). If your child is at or near that age, talk with them early and make sure they understand what the adoption means.

Preparing for a home study you may not need. The home study is waived under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-733(a). Families sometimes lose time or money arranging one before checking. Confirm with the clerk how this applies to your case.

Filing in the wrong court or guessing at local details. Adoptions are handled by the Probate Court. Connecticut has 8 counties, and local procedures can differ. Your county's Probate Court clerk can confirm filing fees, hearing scheduling and any local preferences. Don't rely on a fee estimate from someone else.

Treating an adult adoption like a minor adoption. If the person being adopted is 18 or older, a different process applies under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-734:

• The adopter and adoptee sign a written agreement.
• A married adopter's spouse generally must join in the agreement, unless the Probate Court finds sufficient reason why the spouse should not.
• If the adoptee is married, the adoptee's spouse must give written consent under Conn. Gen. Stat. § 45a-735.