You have many adoption options, and with Adoption Choices of Missouri, this is the perfect place to begin exploring them.
Each state maintains its own adoption policies, so the process can vary considerably for families in different states. As a Missouri resident, you’ll want to work with an adoption agency or adoption attorney who is very familiar with Missouri adoption laws and policies. Below, learn all about the legal guidelines for families adopting in Missouri.
Missouri Adoption Laws & Statutes
Who Can Adopt in Missouri? Any single adult or married couple jointly may adopt, regardless of state residency.
Can LGBT families adopt? Yes!
Can adoptive parents advertise for birth parents? Yes.
Can out-of-state residents finalize an adoption? Yes.
Can adopting parents use an adoption facilitator or another paid intermediary? Yes, adopting parents may use an adoption facilitator, as long as the facilitator complies with Dept. of Social Services’ regulations.
What birth parent expenses may be paid, and in what time period? Medical, legal (plus court costs, administration expenses), counseling, living (food, shelter, utilities, transportation, and clothing within community norms; adoption-related travel).
Is there a putative father registry? Yes.
When can consent to adoption be granted? Birth mother: 48 hours after birth; birth father: any time.
When does consent become irrevocable? If consent is revoked, is return to birth parent automatic? After court approves consent. Court must approve the consent within 3 days or set a hearing on the consent. Return assumed to be automatic; this aspect of law untested.
Are post-adoption contact agreements legally enforceable? Not addressed in state statutes
More specific adoption laws for Missouri are covered here.
DISCLAIMER: The state laws and policies outlined above are offered to readers only for general information and do not constitute legal advice. Furthermore, the state laws were accurate at the time of compilation, but Adoption Choices cannot guarantee that there have been no subsequent changes or revisions to the laws. Please do not rely on the information above without first consulting an adoption attorney licensed in your state.