Anytime an adult wants to adopt a child, the judge confirms three things before finalizing the adoption.
1) Are the prospective parents at least 22 years old* and are US citizens or permanent residents?
2) Do the parents make enough money to provide necessities for the child, like food, water, and shelter?
3) Are the prospective parents mentally well enough to take care of a child?
*age is state dependent
Many judges will ensure the child goes to a loving and caring home, no matter sexual orientation. While same-sex adoption is legal in Kansas, some judges will question whether or not it is in the interest of the child, which could lead to discrimination that’s justified within Kansas courts. Kansas LGBTQ Family Law can help couples, or single parents, find judges who will evaluate families fairly. For those who do go to court with a fair judge and case, there are many considerations and steps to take before finalizing an adoption.
Kansas law states that the birth mother is the official parent of the child along with the biological father if he chooses to be involved. All parties must fill out paperwork the same as a traditional adoptive family would. Single-parent adoption is legal as well, so that is also a factor within that paperwork too.
If two males wants to adopt, they can go through the adoption process or a gestational surrogacy. When the child is born the mother will sign a document relinquishing parental rights, and both males can put their name on the child’s birth certificate as either “father” and “father” or “parent”. The same goes with women in a same-sex marriage who use a sperm donor when the male is involved.
Choosing a same sex adoption is always an option wth Adoption Choices of Kansas and we welcome the LGBTQ community to contact us to discuss adoption options.
