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.
Title: Tennessee Adoption Laws: Who May Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption? Introduction: Adoption is a legal process that allows individuals or couples to establish a legal parent-child relationship with a child who is not biologically their own. In Tennessee, various laws and guidelines govern the adoption process, ensuring the best interests of the child are protected. This article aims to provide a detailed description of who may adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption in Tennessee, while highlighting any different types of adoptions that exist within the state. 1. Who May Adopts in Tennessee? In Tennessee, any adult person may adopt, regardless of marital status, provided they meet certain criteria. Adoptive parents must be at least 18 years old and must be able to demonstrate financial stability and a suitable home environment for the child. Tennessee's law does not discriminate based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation, making adoption an option for a wide range of individuals and families. 2. Who May Be Adopted in Tennessee? Tennessee allows individuals of any age to be adopted, but the adoption process differs based on the age of the child. In most cases, the child must consent to adoption if they are over the age of 14. However, if the child is under 14, consent may be waived if it is found to be in the child's best interest. 3. Placing a Child for Adoption in Tennessee — Birth Parents' Rights: Tennessee law recognizes the rights of birth parents when it comes to placing their child for adoption. Birth parents may voluntarily place their child for adoption, either through a private agency, licensed attorney, or the Department of Children's Services (DCS). Birth parents have the right to consent or withhold consent for adoption, and they may also choose the adoptive family if they wish. It is important to note that a birth mother's consent to adoption cannot be given until at least 72 hours after the child's birth. 4. Types of Adoption in Tennessee: Tennessee offers various types of adoptions to accommodate different circumstances: — Agency Adoptions: In agency adoptions, a licensed adoption agency facilitates the adoption process by matching prospective adoptive parents with children in need of permanent homes. These agencies typically handle all required legal procedures and offer support services to both the birth parents and adoptive parents. — Independent Adoptions: Independent adoptions involve direct placement between birth parents and adoptive parents, without the involvement of an agency. In these cases, both parties are responsible for ensuring all legal requirements are met. — Relative Adoptions: A relative adoption occurs when a child is adopted by a close relative, such as a grandparent, aunt, or uncle. These adoptions can often provide stability and continuity for the child by keeping them within their extended family. — Step-Parent Adoptions: Step-parent adoptions occur when a child's biological parent marries an individual who wishes to adopt their spouse's child. This type of adoption is a common way to establish a legal relationship between a child and their step-parent. Conclusion: Tennessee's adoption laws are designed to ensure that the welfare of the child is paramount throughout the adoption process. By allowing a wide range of individuals to adopt, recognizing the rights of birth parents, and offering various types of adoption, Tennessee aims to find safe and loving forever homes for children in need. If you are considering adoption in Tennessee, it is crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced adoption attorney.
