What is the adult adoption process in Iowa?

Adult adoption in Iowa is a simpler version of the standard adoption process:

Step 1: Complete our questionnaire (10 minutes) — indicate this is an adult adoption

Step 2: We prepare your Iowa-specific documents within 24 hours

Step 3: Both you (adopting parent) and the adult stepchild sign the documents

Step 4: File the petition with District Court

Step 5: Attend a brief finalization hearing

What makes it simpler:

• Only the adult adoptee's consent is needed — no biological parent consent required
• No home study
• No background check
• No service of process on biological parents
• Faster timeline: typically 4-8 weeks

Cost: Same $349 document preparation fee, plus court filing fees ($150-$250)

Result: Full legal parent-child relationship with inheritance rights, family recognition, and all legal benefits.