TwinSister - I was adopted when my birth mother married when I was seven - I had never had any contact with my biological father and mum wanted the relationship between her husband and I (who I consider to be my dad) to be official.
I have no idea what the cost was, but I do remember that the legal checks were similar if not the same as for any other adoption - they do a lot of checks to ensure fitness to parent. I was always confused as to why my mum had to adopt me as well and go through all of these checks, and it was explained to me that even though her parenting had never been under question in the past, it couldn't be assumed that she would continue to be a good parent in the new relationship and hence all of the checks applied to her as well.
On the one hand I always thought it was ridiculous, but there have been cases where a woman who has been a previously good parent has been influenced by her new partner (for example, through abuse) and become a negligent parent as a result. So I suppose there is some sense behind applying the same process to a parent who wants their new spouse to adopt the child as to any other adoptive parents.
I have the same kind of situation as your DS. I have never had contact with my biological father. My birth cert has a blank space next to father.
However, my Dad has been my dad since I was born. When I was 5 my surname was changed to my Dad's name via Deed Poll as my parents married.
I grew up believing dad was my real dad and was told the true story when I was 11.
To me, it means more that I have a different birth cert and my name was changed. Dad didn't have to do that, but he did because he wanted to be my Dad, IYKWIM?
We have had a baby boy in our care now for almost two years and are hoping we can adopt him ASAP. I'm waiting to hear back from a lady for more information on what we have to do, the cost, etc..
The Ethiopian program has just had a major review by the Dept of Attorney General and they are increasing their fees significantly:- What's New in Intercountry Adoption
They haven't released the figures as yet however I have heard that it will be over US$10,000 and this doesn't include seminars, home visits, visa ($1,400,) flights (parents plus child (one way) $10,000, accommodation.
I would budget in the region of around AUS$25,000 - AUS$30,000 for the whole adoption journey.
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