When considering adoption, many people wonder, Do you have to be married to adopt a child? The answer is straightforward in Kentucky: you do not have to be married to adopt.
Kentucky law allows married couples and single individuals to adopt a child. Whether you are a single individual or a married couple, navigating the legal intricacies of adoption can be challenging.
The Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher is here to help guide you through every step of the adoption process. With our extensive experience in family law, our team is dedicated to ensuring that your adoption journey is smooth and successful.
What Is the Adoption Law in Kentucky?
Under Kentucky law, any adult or married couple can jointly petition to adopt a child. The relevant statute, KRS § 199.470, states that “any person who is a resident of Kentucky and is eighteen (18) years of age or older” may file a petition for adoption. This broad wording ensures that adoption is also accessible to single individuals who wish to become parents.
What Are the Legal Requirements for Adoption?
While marital status is not a barrier to adoption in Kentucky, there are several requirements that all prospective adoptive parents must meet:
- Residency—the individual or couple must be a resident of Kentucky;
- Age—the prospective adoptive parent must be at least 18 years old;
- Background checks—all prospective parents must undergo a thorough background check, including criminal records and child abuse history; and
- Home study—a home study is required to assess the prospective parents’ living conditions and suitability for providing a stable and nurturing environment.
These requirements apply equally to single individuals and married couples, ensuring that all adoptive parents are fit to provide for a child’s needs.
How Do Single Parent Adoptions Work in Kentucky?
If you are single, you may wonder, Can you adopt without being married? The answer is a resounding yes. Kentucky law supports single-parent adoptions, recognizing that a loving and stable home can come in many forms. Whether you are divorced, widowed, or never married, you can pursue adoption if you meet the state’s requirements.
Single parents in Kentucky often adopt through the same channels as married couples, including foster care, private adoption, or international adoption.
How Do Adoptions with Married Couples Work in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, if a married couple wants to adopt a child, both partners must do so. Kentucky law requires both spouses to file a petition to adopt a child jointly. However, this rule can be waived if it denies the child a suitable home.
Contact an Experienced Kentucky Adoption Lawyer Today
Do you need to be married to adopt a child? We hope that we have fully addressed this issue and answered your questions on that subject today. Kentucky law offers a supportive framework for diverse family structures. You do not need to be married to adopt a child in Kentucky. Both single individuals and married couples have the opportunity to provide loving homes to children in need of a family. The Law Office of Pamela C. Bratcher is committed to supporting prospective parents through the complex legal landscape of adoption. With over 30 years of experience, our seasoned legal team will confidently help you navigate the adoption process and create a loving home for a child. Contact us today!