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My wife and I live in Kentucky. What is the law on adopting our nephew who is 19 years old and is an orphan?

My wife and I live in Kentucky. What is the law on adopting our nephew who is 19 years old and is an orphan?

Q: Can you adopt an adult niece?

Yes, you can adopt your adult niece in Kentucky. The process is similar to adopting any other adult, requiring her consent for the adoption to proceed. This allows for legal recognition of the relationship and can have benefits regarding inheritance and other legal matters.

Q: What is the oldest you can legally adopt someone?

In Kentucky, there is no age limit for adopting an adult. As long as the individual is over 18 and consents to the adoption, they can be adopted at any age. This applies to all adults, regardless of how old they are.

Q: What is the maximum age to get adopted?

There is no maximum age to be adopted in Kentucky. Adults can be adopted at any age, provided they consent to the adoption. This law allows for the legal formation of family relationships regardless of age.

Q: Can a US citizen adopt a 40 year old?

Yes, a U.S. citizen can adopt a 40-year-old. The adult being adopted must consent to the process, and the adoption will confer the same legal rights as a traditional adoption. Each state may have specific procedures, so it's advisable to check local laws.

Full question:

My wife and I live in Kentucky. We would like to adopt our nephew who is 19 years old and is an orphan. What is the law on adopting an adult?

Category: Adoption
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Kentucky

Answer:

Any adult may be adopted in the same manner as adopting a minor. It shall thus have the same legal effect, except that the consent of the adult will be required for the adoption to take place.

This is provided in KRS §405.390. It reads:

“An adult person over eighteen (18) years of age may be adopted in the same manner as provided by law for the adoption of a child and with the same legal effect, except that his consent alone to such adoption shall be required.”

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can an adult adopt another adult in the US?

Yes, an adult can adopt another adult in the U.S. The process varies by state, but generally, it requires the consent of the adult being adopted. The adoption grants the same legal rights and responsibilities as a traditional adoption of a minor. Each state has its own laws governing adult adoption, so it's important to check the specific requirements in your state.

Can you adopt an adult niece?

What is the oldest you can legally adopt someone?

What is the maximum age to get adopted?

Can a US citizen adopt a 40 year old?

How do I legally adopt an adult in KY?

To legally adopt an adult in Kentucky, you must file a petition for adoption in the appropriate court. The adult being adopted must consent to the adoption. Once the petition is approved, a court hearing will be scheduled to finalize the adoption. It's recommended to consult with an attorney to ensure all legal requirements are met.