Connecticut Adoption Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Heather Biddle, Esq. | Last updated December 29, 2022
Adoption is a big step for both the parents and the child. This life-altering choice can be a joyous occasion for prospective parents. It's not without its legal hurdles, however. The adoption process can be complicated, both emotionally and legally. Each state has laws regarding who can adopt, who can be adopted, and how, and these laws can be hard to navigate.
Read on for a brief summary of Connecticut adoption laws.
State Adoption Laws
Regulations and laws regarding adoption, including who may adopt and special requirements for adoptive parents, are similar among most states. While there may be minor differences in the statutes, states generally keep adoption regulations things pretty uniform. Connecticut children 12 and older must give consent to adoption. Adoption is a complicated (and important) process, and it is wise to contact an experienced Connecticut adoption attorney for assistance.
Adoption Statutes in Connecticut
The various state adoption laws can differ depending on where you live. Below are some of the highlights of Connecticut adoption laws from Chapter 803 of the Connecticut General Statutes, including regulations on who may adopt, child consent requirements, and the relevant procedures.
| Code Section | § 45a-724 to 765 of the Connecticut General Statutes |
|---|---|
| Who May Be Adopted | Any person (except between persons over the age of majority, there must be written consent of spouses if any of the adopted person) |
| Age that Child's Consent Needed | 12 years and older |
| Who May Adopt | Married persons must join in adoption unless the court finds sufficient reason for nonjoinder; the sexual orientation of prospective parents may be considered |
| Home Residency Required Prior to Finalization of Adoption? | No |
| State Agency/Court | Children and Youth Services/Probate Court |
| Statute of Limitations to Challenge | Not specified |
Note: State laws are constantly changing -- conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Related Resources for Connecticut Adoption Laws
Depending on the circumstances of your adoption, the applicable state law can vary greatly. You can review specific statutes in FindLaw's adoption law section or get a more general overview in our adoption section.
Get Legal Help With an Adoption
Adoption can be a complicated process. There are many state and federal laws that govern adoption. An attorney will help you navigate these laws. They will help review your case, provide helpful legal advice, and advocate for you and your future child.
If you would like legal assistance with an adoption case, you can find an experienced Connecticut adoption attorney in your area to schedule a consultation.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.