This is the second in a series about Adopting in the 50 States. We’re going alphabetically, so today, we’re in Alaska. Although it may be close to Russia, it’s really nothing like that. Remember, I am not a lawyer, nor do I play one on TV. Consult an attorney or other adoption professional with specific questions. If you have adopted in Alaska and would like to share your experience with others, please leave a comment or email me at RobynC@adoptionblogs.com.
Who May Adopt In Alaska?
A husband and wife, an unmarried adult, or the unmarried mother or father of the person to be adopted.
When May Consent Be Signed?
Consent may be signed any time after the birth of the child. The consent must be signed in the presence of the court or a person authorized to take consents.
How Much Time Do the Birth Parents Have to Revoke Consent?
The birth parents have 10 days after the consent was signed to revoke consent, unless the court finds that revoking the consent is in the child’s best interest. A consent may not be revoked after the adoption decree has been issued.
Does Alaska Have a Putative Father Registry?
Yes.
Does Alaska Allow the Biological Father to Give Consent Before the Child is Born?
No.
Can Adoptive Parents Advertise to Find Expectant Parents?
Yes.
How Long Before Adoption Can Be Finalized?
Usually 60 days.
Which Expectant Mother Expenses Can Be Paid by the Adoptive Parents?
Adoptive parents can pay medical, legal, counseling, and living expenses, as well as lost wages. All expenses must be declared to the court after they are paid.
Can Out of State Residents Finalize in Alaska?
Yes.
Does Alaska Allow for Enforceable Open Adoption Agreements?
Yes. Any biological relative can be a party to an open adoption agreement. However, an adoption cannot be overturned if privileges in the agreement are withheld. The court does have the ability to enforce the privileges outlined in the agreement.
Special Consideration
In Alaska, it seems that many children are at least part Native American. When a child or either of his or her biological parents is the member of an Indian Tribe, the provisions of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 may apply.
Resources
- Alaska Adoption
- Child Adoption Laws Alaska
- Child Welfare Information Gateway, State Statutes
- Adamec, Christine. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Adoption. New York: Alpha Books, a member of Penguin Group (USA) Inc., 2004.
- Adoptive Families Magazine, 2004
Photo Credit: Travel Alaska.
