A Florida man, John Goodman, recently made news when it was announced that he intends to adopt his girlfriend, Heather Hutchins. This prompted speculation that the move was designed to protect some of Goodman's fortune (he's a wealthy socialite in Florida) because in March he was found guilty of DUI manslaughter in the death of Scott Wilson in an automobile accident in which Mr. Goodman was driving under the influence of alcohol. Wilson's family sued for damages. The case has been dismissed, suggesting a settlement.
The question immediately comes to mind, can one adult adopt another and, if so, why? The answer is yes, one adult can adopt another adult. There are several reasons. One of the most common is in the case of a remarriage where the new spouse has adult children. Each spouse might wish to solidify the blended family by adopting each other's children, thus making one big, happy family. Another reason is in states that do not recognize same-sex marriages, one member of the couple might adopt the other to give them both something similar to marriage under laws of inheritance and benefits such as health.
For a more detailed look at adult adoption, see this good post by the firm of Bryan Cave:
http://trustbryancave.com/girlfriends-come-and-go-but-daughters-are-forever-the-case-for-adult-adoption/#page=1
