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: Wisconsin Adoption Laws: Who Can Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption? Introduction: Adoption is a legal process that creates permanent family relationships. In Wisconsin, adoption laws govern the requirements and guidelines for who can adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption. This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about the different types of adoptive parents and individuals who may adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption in Wisconsin. 1. Domestic Adoption: Domestic adoption refers to the adoption of a child who is a resident of the United States. In Wisconsin, the following individuals or entities may adopt a child domestically: a) Married Couples: A legally married couple, regardless of gender or sexual orientation, can adopt a child jointly. This includes both opposite-sex and same-sex married couples. b) Single Individuals: Single individuals who are at least 18 years old may adopt a child in Wisconsin. An unmarried person can pursue adoption regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. c) Stepparents: A stepparent can adopt their spouse's child if they meet certain requirements, such as being married to the child's biological or adoptive parent and having the consent of the other parent or obtaining a court order terminating their rights. d) Relative Adoptions: Relatives, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and siblings, may also adopt a child if it's in the child's best interest, and they meet the necessary legal standards. 2. International Adoption: International adoption involves adopting a child from a foreign country. In Wisconsin, the laws regarding international adoption follow the guidelines set by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the respective country's laws. Prospective adoptive parents must comply with both federal and state requirements to complete an international adoption. 3. Placing a Child for Adoption: Birth parents or legal guardians who are considering placing a child for adoption have certain rights and options in Wisconsin: a) Birth Parents: Birth parents can voluntarily surrender their parental rights and consent to the child's adoption. They may choose an adoptive family and participate in an adoption plan, which may include openness agreements determining post-adoption contact. b) Legal Guardians: Legal guardians may also choose to place the child in their care for adoption when it is in the child's best interests. They must meet the legal requirements and follow the necessary procedures to initiate the adoption process. Conclusion: Wisconsin's adoption laws provide various avenues for individuals and couples to adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption. Whether through domestic or international adoption, married or single, Wisconsin recognizes the importance of finding safe and loving homes for children in need. Understanding the different options available helps prospective adoptive parents, birth parents, and legal guardians make informed decisions and navigate the adoption process successfully.
