Pennsylvania Adoption Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Nicole Prebeck, Esq. | Last reviewed December 16, 2022
This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw’s team of legal writers and attorneys and in accordance with our editorial standards.
The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area.
Adopting a child can be a complex process. The adoption process, including rules for who may adopt, is governed by state laws. Read on to learn more about Pennsylvania adoption law, including who may be adopted, who may adopt them, and other important statutory requirements for adopting a child in the state of Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Adoption Laws
The following table lists the basic provisions of Pennsylvania's adoption laws and you can learn more in the background information that follows or see FindLaw's Adoption section.
| Code Section | Tit. 23 §§2101 to 2910 |
|---|---|
| Who May Be Adopted | Any person |
| Age that Child's Consent Needed | 12 years and older |
| Who May Adopt | Any person |
| Home Residency Required Prior to Finalization of Adoption? | Not required, but may do a temporary placement |
| State Agency/Court | Dept. of Human Services/Common Pleas |
| Statute of Limitations to Challenge | Not specified |
Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Related Resources for Adoption Laws
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 Pennsylvania adoption attorney in your area to schedule a consultation.
Was this helpful?
Next Steps: Search for a Local Attorney
Contact a qualified attorney.