New Hampshire Adoption Laws
By FindLaw Staff | Legally reviewed by Heather Biddle, Esq. | Last reviewed January 17, 2024
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The adoption process, restrictions, and requirements for adults who wish to adopt a child (or an adult, in some cases) are regulated at the state level. States generally allow any child in need of a permanent home to be adopted by an eligible adult, although children above a certain age usually have a say in the decision or must consent to the adoption.
Additionally, most states require a "home residency" or "home study" process before the adoption is finalized as a transition period for both the child and adoptive parents. This is important not only to help all parties adjust to the new arrangement but also to make sure the child is in a nurturing environment.
This article provides a brief overview of adoption laws in the state of New Hampshire.
New Hampshire Adoption Laws: At a Glance
The following table lists additional details of adoption laws in New Hampshire. See FindLaw's Adoption section for more articles and resources.
| Code Section | § 170-B et seq. of the New Hampshire Revised Code |
|---|---|
| Who May Be Adopted | Any person |
| Age that Child's Consent Needed | 14 years and older, unless the court determines that it is not in the best interests of the adoptee to require assent |
| Who May Adopt | Any person age 18 or older may petition to adopt any other individual except his or her spouse. Failure to join spouse to petition must be excused (unless other spouse is parent of person to be adopted and consents to adoption). |
| Home Residency Required Prior to Finalization of Adoption? | Six months |
| State Agency/Court | Dept. of Health and Human Services/Probate Court |
| Statute of Limitations to Challenge | One year |
Note: State laws are always subject to change with the enactment of newly signed legislation, decisions from higher courts, and other means. You should contact a New Hampshire adoption attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Research the Law
- New Hampshire Law
- Official State Codes -- Links to the official online statutes (laws) in all 50 states and D.C.
New Hampshire Adoption Laws: Related Resources
Get Legal Help with an Adoption
Deciding to adopt a child can be a serious emotional decision, and the legal process surrounding adoption can be just as serious. You can contact a New Hampshire adoption attorney if you would like legal assistance with an adoption matter. You can also visit FindLaw's Adoption and Adoption Laws sections for additional articles and information on this topic.
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