Adoptions in Hawaii – Oahu

Honolulu HI Adoption Lawyers

In Hawaii and around the country, there is always the need for adoptive parents, and adopting a child is indeed an extremely enriching experience. There are a number of different reasons why people choose to adopt, and of course a very common adoption scenario revolves around a married couple who would like to start a family, or build on an existing family. Couples such as these sometimes choose adoption because one or both of the partners have a physical impediment to natural conception. However, there are others who simply choose to adopt because they want to address the need that exists for adoptive parents even though they could have children naturally. Though adoption may not be for everyone, it is certainly an option that we should all be aware of and take into serious consideration.

Though married couples do comprise a large percentage of those who adopt, in the state of Hawaii, any adult is eligible to adopt a child. The laws concerning adoption can be found in Title 571 of the Hawaii Statutes, and under these laws there is no specific obstacle for gay couples to adopt a child or children, and sexual orientation is not mentioned as a factor for single people who wish to become adoptive parents.  One aspect of the adoption laws in the state of Hawaii that is interesting and somewhat unique is the age of consent that the child must reach before his or her approval is required for the adoption to take place. In Hawaii, children who have reached the age of ten must approve of their prospective adoptive parent or parents.

It is important to note that in the state of Hawaii, any person of any age can be adopted. However, if an adult who is to be adopted is married, the Hawaii Statutes require the agreement of this person’s spouse before a legal adoption can be granted.

People who are interested in adopting a child in Hawaii can go through public channels or private adoption agencies, and you can learn how to proceed by contacting the state Department of Human Services.

Adoptions are a great way to add to or start a family, but there are legalities involved, so anyone who is interested in adopting a child should contact a Honolulu HI family lawyer to arrange for a free consultation.