Do Your Own California Adoption: Nolo's Guide for Stepparents and Domestic Partners (Do Your Own California Adoption, 6th Ed)

Rating:
Summary: Not up to date edition
Review: I recently purchased this book followed its instructions, and tried to file the correct paperwork with the courts when I was informed that the format is no longer acceptable as of 1/1/99. This book should not be sold anymore, being that it is not current. I then contacted Nolo Press, and they informed me that the new edition would not be out until June. THIS BOOK SHOULD NOT BE ON THE MARKET IF IT IS NOT CURRENT!

Rating:
Summary: An easy and at times fun way to save thousands on adopting
Review: This book is wonderful for anyone who wants to adopt their spouse's child and has the consent of the other bio-parent (or other stipulation such as the death of the bio-parent, etc.). It not only provides needed forms, but also has word-by-word examples of the documents you will need to type yourself (for me, that was actually fun!) Additionally, if you live in Los Angeles as I did during the process, it gives you special instructions for filing in L.A. county - very helpful! I had to pay only a $700 assessment fee and 2 or 3 small filing fees and the whole process, from filing the initial petition to the final hearing (which is especially enjoyable) was completed in under 4 months! And the experience brought me even closer to our 5 year old little girl as well as my wife! A lawyer quoted me legal fees of "$2,500 to $3,000, not including filing and assessment fees" before I found this book. You will not only save money, but come away with an amazing sense of accomplishment and a renewed appreciation for your family. I highly recommend this book!