Rhode Island

Rhode Island

Who Must Consent:

The parents or surviving parent.
The guardian or next of kin.
A suitable person appointed by the court as next friend of the child.
A minor parent must have the consent of one of the child's grandparents, a guardian or guardian ad litem.

Consent of Adoptee:
A child 14 years or older must consent to the adoption.

When Parental Consent is Not Needed:

Parental rights have been terminated.
The parent has neglected or abused the child or subjected the child to aggravated circumstances.
The parent is deemed unfit due to emotional or mental illness; excessive drug or alcohol abuse.
Parent has voluntarily or involuntarily placed the child in the care of a licensed agency.

When Relinquishment Can Be Signed:
Termination of rights or consent to adoption may not be executed sooner than 15 days after the child's birth.

How Relinquishment Must Be Signed:
Consent must be in writing.

Time for Revocation:
A decree of adoption or consent cannot be challenged except by a petition filed within 180 days and a finding by the court that the decree is not in the child's best interest.

• Glossary of Terms
• Legal Considerations in Adoption
• Parental Rights
• Putative Father Registries: What They Are and How To Use Them
• Resources for Expectant/Placing Parents

Relinquishment Summaries by State: Index

Source: National Adoption Information Clearinghouse. Reprinted with permission.

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