Answer

In New York State, no child may be adopted until the parental rights of the birth parents have been relinquished or terminated. Termination of Parental rights may be ordered by a court where the child has been in foster care for 15 months of the most recent 22 months. The authorized agency having care of the child can file a petition for termnination of parental rights.

Once termninated you can apply for adoption. A parent can also voluntarily give up their right sto allow an adoption as well.

Once parents rights are gone you are free to adopt the child. Given you are already caring for the child the barriers should be minimal.


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Expert:	jrzepka
Pos. Feedback:	98.8 %
Accepts:
Answered:	2/20/2009

Family Law Attorney

OH/TX Mediator and Attorney dealing with Family, Child, and Divorce Law