Full question:
What are the laws in Ohio on placement of children with my relatives?
- Category: Minors
- Subcategory: Placement with Relatives
- Date:
- State: Ohio
Answer:
In Ohio, relatives are given preference in adoption and other child placements if they meet certain requirements. According to Ohio law, if a child is placed in a foster home or with a relative (not a parent), the agency must notify the foster caregiver or relative if it seeks permanent custody or plans to place the child for adoption. This notice must inform them that they can be considered for adoption.
If the relative or foster caregiver expresses a desire to adopt, the agency must provide information on how to apply. Even if they apply, the child may still be placed for adoption in another home. If the agency has permanent custody and the relative has shown interest in adopting, the agency must consider placing the child with the relative over a nonrelative caregiver, as long as the relative meets child protection standards and it is in the child's best interest (Ohio Rev. Code § 5103.161).
Additionally, a 'kinship caregiver' is defined as someone related to the child by blood or adoption, including grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins, among others (Ohio Rev. Code § 5101.85).
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.