Can I adopt an adult with developmental disabilities in California?

Yes, Adopting Parent(s) may adopt a developmentally disabled Adult Adoptee (special needs person) in California following the regular procedure to adopt an adult that does not have developmental disabilities.  However, two additional procedural steps must be taken in this type of Adult Adoption case.  First, under California Family Code section 9326 the Adopting Parent(s) or their attorney must serve a copy of the Adoption case paperwork and provide Notice of the Adoption Finalization Hearing to the Regional Center for developmentally disabled adults that has jurisdiction over the developmentally disabled adult who is being adopted. This is done by mailing those documents to the Regional Center via U.S. Mail, then filing a Proof of Service by U.S. Mail with the adoption court prior to the final hearing date.  Secondly, under California Family Code section 9327 the Regional Center does not need to file a report with the court, unless the Adopting Parent or their spouse is a provider of board and care, treatment, habilitation, or other services to persons with developmental disabilities, or is an employee of a provider. The best practice in these cases is to remind the Regional Center in writing that they are not required to file a report with the court per California Family Code section 9327.  Once those two additional steps are met, the court proceeds with the California Adult Adoption the same as any other case where no developmental disability exists.