California Consents To Adoption By Parent Retaining Custody (Stepparent Adoption) is a process in which the stepparent adopts a child who is already under the legal custody of the biological parent. This type of adoption is commonly referred to as a second-parent adoption or stepparent adoption. It is a way for a stepparent to gain legal rights and responsibilities for a child, as well as the ability to make decisions about the child’s upbringing. In California, the biological parent must consent to the adoption and must sign the Consent To Adoption By Parent Retaining Custody form. This form must be filed with the California Superior Court. The two types of California Consents To Adoption By Parent Retaining Custody (Stepparent Adoption) are: 1. Joint Stepparent Adoption: This type of adoption requires both the biological parent and the stepparent to agree to the adoption and sign the Consent To Adoption By Parent Retaining Custody form. 2. Single-Parent Stepparent Adoption: This type of adoption requires only the biological parent to agree to the adoption and sign the Consent To Adoption By Parent Retaining Custody form. The stepparent does not need to sign this form.