Maine
MaineWho Must Consent:- Each living parent, unless consent has been waived.
- The person or agency having legal custody.
- A guardian appointed by the court.
Consent of Adoptee:A child 14 years or older must consent to the adoption.
When Parental Consent is Not Needed:- A parent has abandoned the child.
- Parent fails to assume parental responsibility.
- Parent's rights have been terminated.
- The child is 18 years or older.
- A putative father who failed to respond to notice or waived right of notice.
When Relinquishment Can Be Signed:- Consent can be executed any time after the child's birth.
- A petition for adoption must be pending before consent is executed.
How Relinquishment Must Be Signed:- Parents must execute consent before a judge.
- Consent by an agency may be executed before a notary public and filed with the probate court.
- The adoptee, if 14 years or older, must execute consent before a judge.
Time for Revocation:- A consent or release will not be valid until 3 days after if has been executed; it then becomes final and irrevocable.
- If the adoption consented to is not finalized within 18 months, a review must be held.
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Glossary of Terms•
Legal Considerations in Adoption •
Parental Rights•
Putative Father Registries: What They Are and How To Use Them•
Resources for Expectant/Placing ParentsRelinquishment Summaries by State: Index
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