What is required for a birth parent relinquishment?

For a birth parent to relinquish a child to adoption in Delaware, they must first meet the state’s legal requirements. Birth parents must be at least 18 years of age, consent to the adoption after being given the opportunity to have legal counsel, and give consent in writing before a judge or court-appointed attorney. The consent must be witnessed by a notary public or at least two other adult individuals. Before the relinquishment, birth parents must be given an approved pre-consent counseling session and must also receive a copy of the state’s Adoption Information Act, which explains all of their rights and the laws surrounding adoption. The birth parent must also file a statement with the court, stating that they understand the rights they are giving up with the adoption. Relinquishments must be executed in front of a judge or court-appointed attorney in Delaware, and the judge requested the relinquishment must verify that the consent is freely given and that the birth parent understands the implications of giving up a child for adoption. The judge may also require the birth parent to appear in court to verify the relinquishment. The judge will then review the documents and make a ruling to finalize the adoption process.

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What is required for a birth parent relinquishment?

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