Welcome to our twelfth post in the series Adopting In the 50 States. Today, we’re in Idaho, and no, I’m not going to mention potatoes. Instead, did you know that the governor’s last name is “Otter”? Now you know!
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 Idaho and would like to share your experience with others, please leave a comment or email me at RobynC@adoptionblogs.com.
Who May Adopt In Idaho?
Any adult resident may adopt in Idaho. Unless the adoptive parent is the spouse of the biological parent, then the adoptive parent must be at least 15 years older than the child or must be 25 years of age or older.
When May Consent Be Signed?
Consent may be signed any time after birth. However, the consent must be signed in front of a judge, magistrate, or an “authorized officer”.
How Much Time Do the Birth Parents Have to Revoke Consent?
Consent is irrevocable.
Does Idaho Have a Putative Father Registry?
Yes.
Does Idaho Allow the Biological Father to Give Consent Before the Child is Born?
No.
Can Adoptive Parents Advertise to Find Expectant Parents?
No.
Does Idaho Allow the Use of Facilitators?
There are not any laws in Idaho regarding the use of facilitators.
How Long Before Adoption Can Be Finalized?
In an agency adoption, about 8-12 months. In a private adoption, about 3-5 months.
Which Expectant Mother Expenses Can Be Paid by the Adoptive Parents?
Legal and medical expenses and reasonable living and maternity expenses may be paid up to 6 weeks postpartum. Expenses over $500 require pre-approval from the court. Expenses cannot exceed $2,000.
If a birth mother revokes consent, she must pay back all of the expenses. (Yes, I did just write that consent is irrevocable, and yet, the Idaho law provides for revoking consent. Anyone in Idaho know what that’s all about?)
Can Out of State Residents Finalize in Idaho?
No.
Does Idaho Allow for Enforceable Open Adoption Agreements?
There are not any laws in Idaho regarding open adoption agreements.
Resources
- Idaho Foster Care and Adoption Programs
- Adopting In Idaho
- Child Adoption Laws, Idaho
- 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
