This informational guide provides the laws that specify the appropriate state courts, by type and location, for handling adoption petitions.
New Hampshire Court Jurisdiction and Venue for Adoption Petitions: In New Hampshire, the court jurisdiction and venue for adoption petitions are regulated under the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated (RSA) Chapter 170-B. This legislation outlines the legal process of adoption and ensures that all adoptions within the state are conducted in accordance with the best interests of the child. 1. General Jurisdiction and Venue: The New Hampshire Family Division is the primary court with jurisdiction over adoption cases. It has state-wide jurisdiction, which means that adoption petitions can be filed in any county within the state. The venue for adoption proceedings is determined based on the residence of the petitioner(s) or the minor child involved. 2. Interfamily Adoptions: Another type of adoption falling under the New Hampshire Court Jurisdiction and Venue includes interfamily adoptions. In these cases, close relatives, such as grandparents, siblings, or stepparents, petition the court for adoption. The court usually grants jurisdiction and venue preference to the county where the petitioner(s) and the child reside. 3. Inter-Agency Adoptions: Inter-agency adoptions involve the participation of licensed adoption agencies within New Hampshire. These agencies facilitate the placement of a child with adoptive parents and work closely with the court to ensure a smooth adoption process. The court's jurisdiction and venue are determined by the county where the child is currently placed or where the agency is located. 4. International Adoptions: If prospective adoptive parents are looking to adopt a child from another country, New Hampshire courts also have jurisdiction over international adoption cases. The venue for these proceedings is typically determined based on the county where the petitioner(s) reside. The court works in conjunction with other relevant entities, such as the U.S. Department of State and Immigration and Custom Enforcement (ICE), to verify the legality and suitability of the adoption. 5. Consent and Termination of Parental Rights: In all adoption cases, the court has jurisdiction to address issues related to the consent of the biological parents or the termination of their parental rights. If the child is born in New Hampshire, the court has authority over these matters, irrespective of the current residence of the biological parents. It is important to note that the court jurisdiction and venue for adoption petitions can vary based on specific circumstances and exceptions. However, the fundamental goal of the New Hampshire court system is to ensure the best interests of the child, providing a fair and transparent legal process for adoption.
