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Welcome to our seventh post in the series Adopting in the 50 States. Today, we’re in our very first state, Delaware (which has a very informative web site). 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 Delaware and would like to share your experience with others, please leave a comment or email me at RobynC@adoptionblogs.com.
Who May Adopt In Delaware?
In Delaware, any adult over the age of 21 can adopt.
When May Consent Be Signed?
The birth father can sign any time. The birth mother can sign any time after the child’s birth.
How Much Time Do the Birth Parents Have to Revoke Consent?
The person who signed the consent has 60 days to petition to revoke consent. A representative from the appropriate agency or department has 30 days to make a report to the family court. The family court must act on that report immediately.
Does Delaware Have a Putative Father Registry?
Yes.
Does Delaware Allow the Biological Father to Give Consent Before the Child is Born?
Yes.
Can Adoptive Parents Advertise to Find Expectant Parents?
No.
Does Delaware Allow the Use of Facilitators?
No.
How Long Before Adoption Can Be Finalized?
At least 6 months.
Which Expectant Mother Expenses Can Be Paid by the Adoptive Parents?
Only court costs and legal fees may be paid.
Can Out of State Residents Finalize in Delaware?
Yes.
Does Delaware Allow for Enforceable Open Adoption Agreements?
No. There are not any statutes in Delaware regarding open adoption agreements.
Resources
- Delaware Adoption
- Child Adoption Laws, Delaware
- 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
- State of Delaware, Adoption Information
Photo Credit: Perry-Castañeda Library Map Collection, University of Texas
