Full question:
For adoption purposes, when do we need to get the consent of the child as well? I am planning to adopt a 10-year-old girl. Will I need to get her consent as well? We live in Arkansas.
- Category: Adoption
- Subcategory: Consent of Minor
- Date:
- State: Arkansas
Answer:
You do not need to obtain consent from a child who is 10 years old for adoption in Arkansas. However, if the child is 12 years old or older, their consent is required unless the court decides otherwise in the child's best interest. According to A.C.A. § 9-9-206, consent for adoption must be given by:
- The mother of the minor.
- The father of the minor, under certain conditions, such as if he was married to the mother at conception or has legal custody.
- Any person lawfully entitled to custody of the minor.
- The court if the legal guardian cannot consent.
- The minor, if they are over twelve years old, unless the court dispenses with this requirement.
- The spouse of the minor to be adopted.
Additionally, no parent or guardian may receive compensation for relinquishing a minor for adoption, except for certain allowable expenses.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.