This briefing reviews state laws regarding parties to an adoption. General information dealing with who may adopt, who may be adopted, and who may place a child for adoption is identified. In order for an adoption to take place, a person available to be adopted must be placed in the home of a person or persons eligible to adopt. All states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands have laws that specify which persons are eligible as adopting parents and which persons can be adopted.
Maryland's adoption laws regulate the process of adoption and define who qualifies as eligible participants. Understanding the individuals who may adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption in Maryland is crucial for those considering adoption in the state. 1. Who May Adopt a Child in Maryland: — Maryland allows both individuals and married couples to adopt a child. — Applicants must be at least 21 years old unless they are adopting a relative or stepchild. — Single adults can adopt, as well as married couples jointly. — Sexual orientation or gender identity does not hinder adoption eligibility. — People with disabilities can adopt unless it is deemed not in the child's best interest. 2. Who May Be Adopted in Maryland: — Any minor child residing in Maryland or born in the state can be adopted. — Children aged 12 years or older should give consent to the adoption unless they are unable to do so or it is not in their best interest. — Adults who were legally adopted, and the adoption decree was finalized, can also be recognized as adopted individuals in Maryland. 3. Who May Place a Child for Adoption in Maryland: — Birth parents or legal guardians who have the right to consent to a child's adoption may place their child for adoption in Maryland. — Birth mothers can voluntarily relinquish their parental rights for adoption after the child's birth. — Birth fathers may consent to adoption if they meet certain requirements, such as acknowledgement of paternity or court determination of paternity. — In cases where a birth parent is deceased or incapacitated, legal guardians may consent to the child's adoption. It is important to note that adoption laws can be intricate and change over time, so it's advisable to consult with an adoption attorney or adoption agency to ensure compliance with the most current regulations in Maryland.
