New Washington Adoption Laws

By Power of Attorney on May 19, 2012 in Adoption Law

Washington adoption laws state that any mentally competent person over the age of 18 may adopt a child.

It should be noted that children 14 years and older must give consent prior to being adopted.

Adoption laws in Washington do not require a home study period – a window where the adoptive parents are interviewed thoroughly by a social worker – which sets them apart from most other states.

Birth mothers can, under Washington adoption law, choose to work directly with the state’s Department of Social & Health Services, or they may choose to work with an affiliated placement agency in order to find the right home for their children.

Picture from Washington Adoption Laws post

Adoption laws in Washington do not require a home study period…

Adoption laws in Washington are set up to provide counseling, financial, and health services to the birth mother and the child being placed for adoption.

All adoption records in Washington are kept sealed, however, if there is a special need (such as a health risk in the adopted child) a legal petition may be filed under Washington adoption law to reveal any pertinent non-identifying information to the adoptive parents.

Non-identifying information, according to the adoption laws of Washington, are medical and mental health records – the name and location of the birth mother will remain sealed.

All adoptions in Washington are finalized by the Superior Court, after which there is a one year period in which the adoption may be contested or reversed, should the situation take a turn for the worse.

Fortunately, Washington adoption laws also provide counseling and assistance for adoptive families and adopted children, so that the transition goes smoothly, and to address any concerns that may arise after ther adoption is finalized.

Washington adoption laws are constantly being reviewed and revised, so it is wise to consult with a Washington adoption law attorney so that everyone involved is aware of their rights, as well as the option open regarding adoption in Washington.

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