A stepparent adoption is initiated when a stepparent files a petition in the county which they reside to adopt the child of their spouse or domestic partner. 

For more information on stepparent adoption contact Sutter County Health and Human Services Department at (530) 822-7227 or you can contact Sutter County Superior Court at (530) 822-3304, 1175 Civic Center Blvd, Yuba City, CA 95993. 

Once the required documents are filed with the court, the Court will make a referral to Sutter County Health and Human Services Department, requesting a Child Welfare Services (CWS) social worker complete an investigation and report pursuant to Family Code Section 7850 and/or 9001. Once CWS receives the referral from the Court, paperwork is mailed to the petitioner to complete and return, including the completion of Livescan fingerprinting at the local Sheriff’s Department. Once the Livescan and paperwork are completed and returned, a CWS social worker contacts the petitioner to schedule a home visit to discuss the matter with the petitioner, his or her spouse or domestic partner, and the child (if age appropriate). The investigation also includes discussion with the child’s biological parent to determine their position on the matter. The social worker then prepares a report for the Court, making a recommendation regarding termination of parental rights and/or adoption.