Adult Adoptions

Services Offered

Adult Adoptions

Adult adoptions are often more straightforward than people expect. Only two things are necessary: the adoptee must be 18 or older, and they must consent to being adopted.

This kind of adoption is more common than many people realize, especially as blended families continue to grow. In some situations, it can provide a meaningful legal solution when it has been difficult to prove abandonment or terminate a biological parent’s rights earlier in life.

Who this serves

Adults 18 and older who want to be legally adopted, often in blended family situations.

What families need

A clear understanding of eligibility, consent, filing expectations, and what the process may involve.

Why it matters

A completed adult adoption can create a new birth certificate and legally reflect the parent-child relationship that already exists.

Fees

Fees are based on the facts of the case, and a detailed retainer estimate is provided before any payment is made.

What to Expect

A simpler process than many families expect

Adult adoptions are often far more straightforward than people assume. When the adoptee is 18 or older and consents to being adopted, the legal process can offer a practical way to formalize the parent-child relationship in a blended family.

In many cases, this becomes especially meaningful when it was difficult to prove abandonment or terminate a biological parent’s rights earlier on, even though a stepparent was clearly the person who did the real work of parenting.

Helpful note

A completed adult adoption generates a new birth certificate, and it becomes as if the adoptee was legally born to their stepparent.

Why this matters

For many families, adult adoption provides the legal recognition of a relationship that has already existed emotionally and practically for years.

Best fit for

Adults 18 and older who want their legal documents to reflect the family relationship that has already been lived out in real life.

What we help with

Clarifying eligibility, explaining the adoption process, preparing for filings, and helping families understand what the legal outcome may mean.

What makes this easier

A simple eligibility standard, consent-based process, clear communication, and a detailed retainer estimate before any payment is made.

First step

Call Jackie to talk through the situation, confirm the likely fit for adult adoption, and receive a quote based on the facts of the case.

Need more info for an adult adoption case?

Call Jackie to talk through the facts, understand the process, and receive a detailed retainer estimate before making any payment.

Every adoption is unique. We help you understand the process & make it easy.

DHS subsidized Adoptions and Legal Guardianship for foster and kinship families

Adoptions through West Virginia’s foster care system are fully covered by the state. However, because attorneys are reimbursed after finalization, some firms require upfront costs or charge more than what the state pays.

We will never ask you to pay any fees in advance or pay us more than what the state will reimburse.

Legal guardianship:

Legal guardianship is best used when a parent’s parental rights have not been terminated by the Judge during the course of an abuse and neglect proceeding or of when a child over the age of 12 years does not want to consent to or desire to be adopted. The child’s name can be changed or remain the same and the biological parent’s names remain on the birth certificate. This is permanent until the child turns 18 years of age.

Adult Adoptions:

The original birth certificate will now list the adoptive parents and that adults biological parent and the adoptee can also change their name if they desire.

Stepparent Adoptions:

Stepparent adoption can happen either through a biological parent voluntarily relinquishing their rights or by demonstrating abandonment, such as a lack of contact or financial support.

Costs vary based on each case, but you’ll receive a clear, upfront estimate before any payment is required, with flexible payment options available.

Private Adoptions:

We help families finalize private adoptions after the family has been approached or connected with a Mother who has determined that it would be in her unborn or born child’s best interest to be adopted. We also help families that have been connected with a child through a certified adoption agency. While we don’t match families with children, we’re happy to connect you with trusted adoption agencies to get started.

International Adoptions:

International adoptions are completed in the child’s birth country, and we help ensure that adoption is legally recognized in the United States. Once recognized, a U.S. birth certificate can be issued.

Costs vary by case, but you’ll receive a clear, upfront estimate before any payment is required, with flexible payment options available.

Why Families Trust Biddle Law Office

Fast & Efficient:

Paperwork is typically prepared within 24–48 hours of receiving your adoption packet — so you can move forward without delays.

25 Years of Experience:

Jackie has spent more than two decades helping West Virginia families navigate adoption with care, efficiency, and integrity.

No Hidden Costs:

The state covers all costs associated with DHS subsidized adoptions and the quoted retainer covers all costs associated with private adoptions.”

Compassionate Guidance:

You’ll work directly with Jackie every step of the way — from preparing your packet to your final court hearing.

Client Testimonials

Kind words from families we have served

Every adoption story is personal. These families shared what it was like to work with Jackie and the Biddle Law Office team.

Jackie and Savannah are amazing! They are fast and some of the nicest people I’ve had the pleasure of coming in contact with. I highly recommend this woman and appreciate everything she has done for us!!

Kristi Donahue

Biddle Law Office client
Jackie is absolutely amazing. Highly recommend if you are venturing into the adoption process.

Andrea Mollohan

Biddle Law Office client
Jackie is so caring and helpful every step of the way! She’s definitely who you need for all your adoption needs!

Tara Porter

Biddle Law Office client
Jackie is absolutely wonderful!! She was absolutely the best during the entire adoption process! Even before our two boys entered the adoption phase, she would answer questions and was always very helpful. This woman right here LOVES what she does, and that’s hard to find! She’s definitely in it for the right reasons. She treats everyone the same, no matter who you are or how much money you have! There is no reason not to choose Biddle Law Office.

Mitchell Mundy

Biddle Law Office client
Highly recommend Jackie. She made this process so easy. She is very professional and caring!

Patti Andela-Neal

Biddle Law Office client

I look forward to working with you!

Phone Number

O: 304. 522. 2204

C: 304. 617. 2093

Email Address

Mailing Address

422 10th Street, Suite 1 & 2

Huntington, WV 25701

© Biddle Law Office 2025

This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

I look forward to working with you!

Phone Number

O: 304. 522. 2204

C: 304. 617. 2093

Email Address

Mailing Address

422 10th Street, Suite 1 & 2

Huntington, WV 25701

© Biddle Law Office 2026

This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

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