Louisiana Adoption Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last updated December 12, 2022
Growing your family by adopting a child can be a rewarding experience. The legal requirements surrounding adoption, however, can sometimes prove to be bureaucratic and complex. Indeed, it can seem impossible for the average Louisiana resident to make heads or tails of the state laws that regulate who can be adopted, by whom, and how.
Read on for a brief summary of Louisiana adoption laws.
State Laws
Most regulations regarding adoption exist at the state level and will dictate who is allowed to adopt and the special requirements for adoptive parents. Even the simplest adoptions can be a momentous and complex process; for help in understanding the law and what your legal requirements might be, you may want to contact an attorney.
Adoption Laws in Louisiana
States are free to set up their own adoption laws, which can differ from other states. Adoption laws in Louisiana are highlighted in the chart below.
| Code Section | Ch. C. Art. 1167-1270; No |
|---|---|
| Who May Be Adopted | Any child or adult; Special procedures exist to adopt an adult. |
| Age that Child's Consent Needed | Age 12 or older |
| Who May Adopt | Any single person 18 years of age or older, or married couple jointly. |
| Home Residency Required Prior to Finalization of Adoption? | 1 year/6 mos. |
| State Agency/Court | Dept. of Social Services/Juvenile |
| Statute of Limitations to Challenge | 30 days |
Louisiana is one of six states (plus Kentucky, Montana, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Washington), in which a person must be at least eighteen years old to adopt. A few states allow minors to adopt under certain circumstances, such as when the minor is the spouse of an adult adoptive parent or when the minor is the unmarried birth parent of the child to be adopted.
Related Resources for Adoption Laws
The adoption process can be lengthy, and the state statutes and policies concerning adoption can seem never-ending. State standards and regulations concerning adoption can be complex and are subject to change. You can visit FindLaw's Adoption Laws section to review some of these laws and 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 Louisiana adoption attorney in your area to schedule a consultation.
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.