Mississippi
MississippiWho Must Consent:- The parents or parent, if only one is living.
- If both parents are dead, then any 2 adult kin provided at least one is in possession of the child.
- Guardian ad litem of an abandoned child.
- Any person having custody of the child.
- An agent of the county department.
Consent of Adoptee:A child 14 years or older must consent to the adoption.
When Parental Consent is Not Needed:Parent:
- Has abandoned or abused the child.
- Suffers a medical or emotional illness or chemical dependency.
- Has had parental rights terminated.
- Father of child born out of wedlock unless he has shown within 30 days of the child's birth and commitment to parenthood.
When Relinquishment Can Be Signed:Consent is executed no sooner than 72 hours after the child's birth.
How Relinquishment Must Be Signed:Consent is executed before and filed by an authorized officer of any institution engaged in placing children for adoption.
Time for Revocation:Case law suggests that consent is irrevocable absent fraud, duress or undue influence shown by clear and convincing evidence and considering the best interests of the child.
•
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
Home
Add Your Comments!
We want to know what you think. Your comments are important to us and the other readers. You are what makes this site special.