1. Age difference: In most states, the adopting parent must be at least 18 years older than the adult adoptee. However, some states have lower age difference requirements, such as 10 years.
2. Consent: Both the adopting parent and the adult adoptee must consent to the adoption.
3. Home study: The adopting parent and the adult adoptee may be required to complete a home study, which is an assessment of their suitability to be parent and child.
4. Court approval: The adoption must be approved by a court. The court will consider factors such as the age difference between the adopting parent and the adult adoptee, the relationship between the parties, and the best interests of the adult adoptee.
If the court approves the adoption, the adult adoptee will legally become the child of the adopting parent. This means that the adoptee will have all of the rights and responsibilities of a child, including the right to inherit from the adopting parent.
To start the adoption process, the adopting parent and the adult adoptee should contact an attorney who specializes in adoption law. The attorney can help them to understand the legal requirements and to complete the necessary paperwork.
