In this answer · 6 sections
A Florida adult-stepparent adoption proceeds through a petition, required consents, parental notice and a court hearing. The most useful preparation is a complete, consistent packet and a clear plan for notice. A quick checkout or signed questionnaire does not finish those legal steps.
Florida Courts publishes Form 12.981(c)(1), Petition for Adoption of Adult by Stepparent. The posted form bears a November 2015 date. Read the current local packet and instructions as well as the 2026 petition statute, §63.112, before filing.
Use this filing roadmap
| Stage | Practical result to obtain |
|---|---|
| Confirm the family relationship | Correct petitioner, adoptee and spouse roles |
| Assemble the packet | Consistent names, birth details, addresses, reasons and required attachments |
| Complete signatures | Consents and petition executed according to their instructions |
| File with the circuit clerk | Accepted filing, case number and applicable fee or relief determination |
| Complete notice | Required recipients notified by the permitted method, with proof filed |
| Arrange the hearing | Date, attendance instructions and documents confirmed |
| Obtain the judgment | Signed order and the clerk's instructions for copies and records |
Keep a folder for each stage. An incomplete consent, incorrect name or missing service return can prevent a case from being ready even when the petition itself has been accepted.
Assemble facts before completing forms
The posted petition requests the adoptee's birth information, the petitioner's age and residence, the reasons for adoption, the requested name, the birth parents' details and information about notice and consents. Section 63.112 also describes statutory petition information, including marital status and property of the person being adopted.
Use actual facts and explain unknown information through the proper procedure. Do not invent an address or write that notice was completed before it happened. If your situation differs from adoption of a spouse's adult child, confirm which petition applies instead of changing the family roles to fit this form.
Follow the signing instructions
The petition instructions call for the petitioner's signature before a notary public or deputy clerk. They identify the adoptee's consent and, when applicable, the adult adoptee's spouse consent, Form 12.981(c)(2). That spouse form includes witness and notarization or clerk-signing provisions.
Read each document's instructions before signing. The statute allows the court to waive the adoptee's spouse's consent for good cause; it does not let a family silently omit the form when the spouse declines. Resolve any waiver request through the court.
File in the appropriate court
The posted statewide petition instructions direct filing with the circuit clerk in the county where either the petitioner or adoptee lives. Confirm local submission methods, the current filing charge and which attachments are required. The instructions discuss electronic filing for self-represented people; verify current circuit procedures before uploading confidential adoption papers.
The Florida court-fee guide separates clerk charges from private preparation. Retain a filed copy and the case number. The private service price is $349 for the first adoptee and $99 per additional adoptee in the same case, with optional mailing and court expenses separate.
Complete notice and hearing arrangements
§63.062(8) addresses adult and spouse consents and parental notice. The posted court instructions distinguish personal from constructive service. Use the consent and notice guide before choosing a method.
Check with the clerk, intake staff or judicial assistant about scheduling and attendance. §63.122 permits an adult hearing immediately after filing, but does not promise that scheduling result. The court can order an appropriate investigation. After judgment, obtain required copies and follow the birth-record instructions for the jurisdiction holding the record.
Related Florida adult-adoption guides
- How long does adult adoption take in Florida?.
- Can I adopt my adult stepchild in Florida?.
- Does the biological parent need to consent to adult adoption in Florida?.
- Is there an age limit for adult adoption in Florida?.
- Can I adopt my stepparent as an adult in Florida?.
- Can an elderly stepparent adopt in Florida?.
Keep the applicable court instructions with your plan and resolve any remaining legal questions before filing.
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