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Adoption Form Packets

Adoption Form Packets

Forms needed to file for adoption (stepparent, independent, agency, or international adoption).

Forms needed to file for adoption

Adoption forms and download links
Form numberForm nameDownload
ADOPT-050-INFOHow to Adopt a Child in CaliforniaDownload ADOPT-050-INFO (PDF) 
ADOPT-200Adoption RequestDownload ADOPT-200 (PDF) 
ICWA-010(A)Indian Child InquiryDownload ICWA-010(A) (PDF) 
ICWA-020Parental Notification of Indian StatusDownload ICWA-020 (PDF) 
ADOPT-230Adoption ExpensesDownload ADOPT-230 (PDF) 
VS-44Court Report of AdoptionDownload VS-44 (PDF) 
ADOPT-210Adoption AgreementDownload ADOPT-210 (PDF) 
ADOPT-215Adoption OrderDownload ADOPT-215 (PDF) 
Sup.Ct. 71Request to Set Default or Uncontested Matter for HearingDownload Sup.Ct. 71 (PDF) 

For current filing fees, see the Court Fee Schedule or contact the Clerk’s Office at (209) 992-5690.

General instructions for adoption

Please read all instructions carefully before filing.

International adoption

If you are adopting a child from a foreign country, you must comply with that country’s adoption requirements before the adoption can occur in California. You may be able to find country-specific information at U.S. Department of State – Intercountry Adoption , or you can contact the consulate of the country of the child’s birth.

Court staff cannot provide legal advice (Government Code sections 24004 and 68082). 

Submitting your forms for filing

  • You may not need every form listed above. Submit the required forms for your specific type of adoption.
  • Complete all required fields. Forms must be dated and signed by the petitioner(s) and/or attorney of record. Do not sign ADOPT-210 (Adoption Agreement) and ADOPT-215 (Adoption Order) in advance—these are typically signed at the hearing.
  • Forms must be typed or neatly printed in blue or black ink.
  • Do not use lined or colored paper for attachments.
  • Submit the original plus two (2) copies for your records. Failure to provide copies may result in additional fees.
  • If you want copies returned by mail, include a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE) with sufficient postage. If you do not include a SASE, copies may be placed in the courthouse pick-up cabinet. Items not picked up within 30 days may be destroyed.
  • Include the correct filing fee. If you cannot afford court fees and costs, you may request a fee waiver by completing FW-001 (Request to Waive Court Fees) (PDF) and reviewing the Fee Waiver form packet. Current fees are listed on the Court Fee Schedule.

Interpreter needs

Court proceedings are conducted in English. If you need an interpreter, you may request one by completing and filing INT-300 (Request for Interpreter—Civil) (PDF).

Publication

If the court requires service by publication, you will also need to pay the newspaper’s publication fee. Contact the newspaper directly for rates. See the list of approved newspapers: Approved Newspapers for Publication (PDF) .

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