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Welcome to our sixth post in the series Adopting in the 50 States. Today, we’re in the Constitution State, Connecticut. 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 Connecticut and would like to share your experience with others, please leave a comment or email me at RobynC@adoptionblogs.com.
Who May Adopt In Connecticut?
The state of Connecticut’s laws state that a person’s sexual orientation CAN be considered when placing a child, and no one is required to place a child with a homosexual or bisexual individual. Other than that, any adult may adopt.
When May Consent Be Signed?
Consent may be signed 48 hours after the birth of the child.
How Much Time Do the Birth Parents Have to Revoke Consent?
The birth parents can petition the court to revoke consent up until the final adoption decree is ordered. According to Adoptive Families, the decree is usually granted 30 days after the consent has been filed.
Does Connecticut Have a Putative Father Registry?
Yes.
Does Connecticut Allow the Biological Father to Give Consent Before the Child is Born?
No.
Can Adoptive Parents Advertise to Find Expectant Parents?
Yes. Expectant parents can also advertise to find adoptive parents.
Does Connecticut Allow the Use of Facilitators?
No.
How Long Before Adoption Can Be Finalized?
30 days.
Which Expectant Mother Expenses Can Be Paid by the Adoptive Parents?
Payments must be made to an escrow account, not to the expectant mother. Medical and legal expenses may be paid with court approval. Counseling expenses may be paid. A maximum of $1,500 of living expenses, including telephone bills and clothing, may also be paid.
Can Out of State Residents Finalize in Connecticut?
No.
Does Connecticut Allow for Enforceable Open Adoption Agreements?
Yes. The adoption cannot be rescinded if the adoptive parents do not follow the terms of the agreement. Only birth parents can be parties to a post-adoption contact agreement. The court can order that the agreement be followed.
Resources
- Connecticut Adoption
- Child Adoption Laws, Connecticut
- 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, 2008.
Photo Credit: Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection, University of Texas
