In principle, the consent of the mother, father and child is required for an adoption. It is irrelevant whether it is an adoption by a new family (third-party adoption) or by a stepparent (stepchild adoption).

For children under the age of 14, consent can only be given by the person (or persons) legally representing the child. For older children, only the child itself can usually give consent. However, they then need the consent of the person(s) legally representing them.

As long as the court has not yet decided on the adoption, a child aged 14 or older can revoke their consent to their adoption. This is also possible if the legal representative has given consent for the child and the child later turns 14, but only if the adoption has not yet been finalized. The child can revoke their consent on their own. It does not need permission to do so. It does not matter why the child wishes to withdraw consent.

A form is prescribed for the revocation of consent. The revocation must be "publicly notarized". This notarization can take place in a notary's office or in a youth welfare office. Notarization at a youth welfare office is free of charge. There are costs for notarization in a notary's office.