This briefing reviews state laws regarding parties to an adoption. General information dealing with who may adopt, who may be adopted, and who may place a child for adoption is identified. In order for an adoption to take place, a person available to be adopted must be placed in the home of a person or persons eligible to adopt. All states, the District of Columbia, American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the Virgin Islands have laws that specify which persons are eligible as adopting parents and which persons can be adopted.
Oklahoma has specific laws and guidelines regarding who may adopt, be adopted, or place a child for adoption in the state. These criteria aim to ensure the well-being and best interests of the child. Here is a detailed description of the requirements and different types of adoption scenarios in Oklahoma. Who May Adopts in Oklahoma: 1. Married Couples: Oklahoma allows both opposite-sex and same-sex married couples to adopt a child jointly. The couple must be legally married and provide evidence of a stable and committed relationship. 2. Unmarried Adults: Single adults, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can adopt a child in Oklahoma. 3. Step-Parents: A step-parent may adopt their spouse's child if the marital relationship with the biological parent is legally recognized. 4. Relatives: Relatives, such as grandparents, aunts, or uncles, may adopt a child if the court deems it to be in the child's best interest. 5. Foster Parents: Foster parents who have cared for a child may pursue adoption if the child becomes legally eligible for adoption, and it is determined to be in the child's best interest. Who May Be Adopted in Oklahoma: 1. Minors: Children under the age of 18 are eligible for adoption in Oklahoma. 2. Adults: In certain circumstances, adults who require assistance and have a legal guardian may also be adopted. Who May Place a Child for Adoption in Oklahoma: 1. Birth Parents: Birth parents can voluntarily place their child for adoption in Oklahoma if they are over the age of consent (18 years) and choose to do so willingly and without coercion. 2. Legal Guardians: If the child's legal guardian is unable to meet the child's needs or believes that adoption is in the child's best interest, they may place the child for adoption. 3. Child Welfare Agencies: In cases where the court determines that a child is under circumstances that warrant removal from their biological parents, child welfare agencies may place the child for adoption. It is important to note that the adoption process in Oklahoma involves home studies, background checks, and various legal procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of the child. Adoptions are typically finalized through the Oklahoma court system after an appropriate waiting period and compliance with all legal requirements. In conclusion, Oklahoma has various adoption scenarios, including married couples, unmarried adults, step-parents, relatives, and foster parents who can adopt children. Children under 18, adults in need of assistance, birth parents, legal guardians, and child welfare agencies may be involved in the adoption process. These guidelines aim to provide a stable and nurturing environment for children in need of permanent homes.
