Can I adopt a child if I’m not married?
Yes, it is possible to adopt a child if you are not married in New York. According to the New York State Office of Children and Family Services, unmarried individuals, married couples, and same-sex couples may adopt a child in the state. The law does not restrict adoption based on marital status, sexual orientation, gender, or religion. New York adoption law is governed by the Domestic Relations Law, which generally defines a child as an individual who is under the age of 18. The adoptive parent or parents must be at least 18 years of age or older, although exceptions can be made in some cases. To be eligible to adopt in New York, an applicant must meet certain requirements. These requirements include criminal background checks, a home study, and several other provisions. The Office of Children and Family Services can provide detailed guidance and information on the adoption requirements specific to the state. In some cases, unmarried individuals may choose to pursue a single-parent adoption, such as a stepparent adoption or an adoption from state foster care. In order to pursue either of these options, the unmarried individual must meet all of the requirements set forth in the New York Domestic Relations Law. It is important to note that adoption laws and requirements vary by state, so it is always best to check with the appropriate state agency for specific details about adoption in the state of New York.
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