Adoption
Stepparent Adoption
The probate office can provide a packet of forms for a stepparent adoption for a fee or the forms can be downloaded from the Wisconsin Court System - Circuit court forms; look under the juvenile section. Depending on local practice, the petitioners may be responsible for arranging the stepparent screening if the local county department of human services does not conduct these screenings.
Note: before a person may adopt a child, it usually is necessary to terminate the parental rights of one or both of the child's parents. Contact the Clerk of Juvenile Court or Register in Probate in the County you reside for more information on the court procedure for Termination of Parental Rights. You may also visit the State of Wisconsin Department of Children & Families website for more information.
Foreign Adoption
Petitioners for a re-adoption of a child adopted overseas can use the forms from the Wisconsin Court System - Circuit court forms; look under the juvenile section. A licensed adoption agency shall conduct an investigation of the petitioners for the foreign adoption.
If certain requirements are met, it is possible to have the court affirm the foreign adoption without a hearing and additional reports. These forms are also available Wisconsin Court System - Circuit court forms
Adult Adoption
The probate office can provide a packet of forms for an adult adoption for a fee or the forms can be downloaded from the Wisconsin Court System - Circuit court forms; look under the juvenile section.
Request for Adoption Record
Adoption records are confidential and are closed to the public. Adopted persons or birth parents seeking information should contact:
Adoption Record Search Program
PO Box 8916
Madison WI 53708-8916
608.266.7163
Additional information is available online
Mandated Forms
Standard, statewide forms are required by all Wisconsin circuit courts. Forms can be obtained in person from the Register in Probate office. A small fee may be charged. Forms can also be obtained online at Wisconsin Court System - Circuit court forms.
Obtaining a New Birth Certificate
If the child was born in Wisconsin, the Probate office or the agency/social worker conducting the investigation/screening will provide a form to change the birth certificate. The State of Wisconsin vital records office will create a new birth certificate. If the child was born in a foreign country, Wisconsin will create a certificate of birth facts. If the child was born in another state, check here for information on other state’s vital records offices.
This webpage is provided as a public service and is not intended to be legal advice.
If you have any questions about the information on this webpage, please contact an attorney.
If you have any questions about the information on this webpage, please contact an attorney.
