Adoption

Adopting a child is a journey of great human and legal value. We assist Italian and international families through all stages of child adoption, both in Italy and abroad.

In Italy, adoption is governed by Law 184/1983 and protects a minor’s right to a stable family. We help you choose the appropriate procedure and manage the documentation correctly.

Types of adoption provided for by law

• Full adoption.
• Special cases (e.g., stepchild adoption)
• Adult adoption, subject to specific conditions.

Requirements

• Legal requirements and criteria related to family status, eligibility, and, in some cases, age.
• Eligibility assessment by the Juvenile Court regarding emotional, educational, economic, and psychological profiles.

Domestic adoption

Application to the Juvenile Court, pre-adoptive placement, and, if successful, the final decree. Timelines vary depending on the case.

International adoption

Process with the Commission for International Adoptions and authorized agencies: eligibility, agency selection, matching, completion in the country of origin, and recognition in Italy.

Stepchild adoption and adult adoption

In cases of stepchild adoption, the procedure may be more straightforward, but it requires correctly drafted documents. Adult adoption can have significant inheritance and personal implications.

Timelines, costs, and legal assistance

Timelines and costs depend on the type of adoption and may include authorized agencies, translations, and travel. We provide preliminary consultation, drafting and filing of documents, and coordination with competent agencies and authorities, including in transnational cases.

Adoptions for Italian-foreign couples

When a couple is of mixed nationality (Italian and foreign) or resides abroad, private international law aspects come into play. We manage regulatory and documentary complexity in compliance with the Hague Convention and Law 184/1983.