In general terms, any person can apply to the court for an adoption order in relation to a child. The law says that if the child you want to adopt was not placed with you by the local authority specifically for that purpose, then you have to have had the child living with you for a period of at least twelve months.
If the child was placed with you by the local authority the required period is thirteen weeks.
There is no age limit beyond which you would not be allowed to adopt, subject to the policy of the local authority. However, age is a factor the court would take into account when deciding whether to allow the adoption to go through.
Adoption Solicitors Glasgow
Contrary to popular opinion, the law in Scotland has not quite moved to completely embracing so-called open adoptions – where contact takes place after a child has been adopted. The law merely allows the court to make an order for contact notwithstanding the granting of an order.
Single persons can adopt as can gay and other unmarried couples.
The best online information regarding adopting is provided by the British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF). Its website covers all aspects of adoption and in particular provides very helpful advice as to whether to tell a child that they have been adopted.
Adoption in Scotland
Parents wishing to contest an adoption have a legal right to do so. The only parents who have no such right are those who have lost the right due to a previous court process in which their parental rights have been removed. It is still possible to apply to the court for a restoration of parental rights but any parent who has already lost their parental rights is likely to find it difficult trying to get them back.
Call our Expert Adoption Solicitors Glasgow, Scotland
If you would like advice on Adoption, don’t delay in seeking expert advice from our specialist Child Law team. You will benefit from knowing where you stand from the start. Our expert team of Child Law solicitors will advise and represent you or your child every step of the way. We cover Glasgow, Lanarkshire, Dunbartonshire, Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire, North Ayrshire, South Ayrshire and all areas of Scotland. Call us on 0141 275 4853 or fill out our online form and we will call you back for a confidential chat. We offer a free, no obligation consultation in the first instance.