Adoption Law FAQs

• Q: Who Can Adopt?
  A: The law generally states that any adult may petition for adoption. Marriage is not a requirement for adoption, although if you are married, you usually must file … More
• Q: I Want To Adopt A Child, What Type Of Background Check Will I Need To Go Through?
  A: In order to protect the well being and the safety of an adopted child, anyone wishing to adopt must first participate in a full investigation, which includes an … More
• Q: Can Adoptive Parents "back Out" Of An Adoption?
  A: Yes. The probationary custody period preceding the final court order of adoption is created for this very reason: to determine if the prospective parents are a good … More
• Q: How Long Do Probationary Periods Typically Last?
  A: Generally, after the child has been placed with the adoptive family for probationary custody, the social worker or court representative continues their investigation … More
• Q: Can An Adopted Child Contact Their Birth Parents After Adoption?
  A: This decision is left up to the adoptive parents and the permission of the birth relatives, based upon specific circumstances and what would be most appropriate for … More
• Q: Can An Adopted Adult Contact Their Natural Parents After Adoption?
  A: Yes. The primary way in which adult adoptees can contact their biological parent(s) or relatives is through adoption registries. Adoption registries allow adopted … More
• Q: What Is A Closed Adoption?
  A: In a closed adoption, proceedings occurred entirely through a third party adoption agency. The birth parents will not know the identity of the new parents, and will … More
• Q: Can I Force An Agency To Release Information If I Am Involved In A Closed Adoption?
  A: During a closed adoption, the records, like original birth certificates, from the natural parents are sealed to ensure secrecy. But, you ask a court to force … More
• Q: Can A Court Consider Race When Determining My Qualifications As A Prospective Adoptive Parent?
  A: Yes. Race is a legitimate factor in determining whether an adoption placement is in the best interests of the child. However, race is only one of many factors and may … More
• Q: Can Courts Consider Sexual Orientation As A Disqualification For Adoption?
  A: It depends. There is modern trend to allow gay and lesbian adults to adopt children. However, some states have prohibited such adoptions.