What are the laws on adoption in New York?
Can an adult be adopted? Can a step-parent adopt the child of a spouse?
Answer
CourtHelp has guidance on adoption.
Adoption law is covered in Domestic Relations Law, Article VII. Adoptions can be considered private placement or agency. General considerations for adoption are in Domestic Relations Law § 110 (Who may adopt) and Domestic Relations Law § 111 (Whose Consent required). Adult adoptions are permitted if it creates a parent-child relationship. (Domestic Relations Law § 111 (4)). Stepparent adoptions are covered in Domestic Relations Law § 115-b (8) and Domestic Relations Law § 116 (6).
Adoptions are complex and the advice of an attorney is recommended.