Home Study Requirements for Prospective Parents in Domestic Adoption - Virgin Islands

Who Must Be Studied

Citation: Ann. Code Tit. 16, § 145

The adoption petitioner must be studied as to their suitability to adopt a child.

Agency or Person Conducting the Study

Citation: Ann. Code Tit. 16, § 145

The commissioner of Public Welfare shall submit a report and recommendation with respect to the proposed adoption.

Qualifications for Adoptive Parents

Citation: Ann. Code Tit. 16, § 145

The adoption petitioner must have sufficient ability and in all respects be a proper person to bring up the child and furnish suitable nurturing and education.

Elements of a Home Study

This issue is not addressed in the statutes and regulations reviewed.

Grounds for Withholding Approval

This issue is not addressed in the statutes and regulations reviewed.

When Studies Must Be Completed

This issue is not addressed in the statutes and regulations reviewed.

Postplacement Study Requirements

This issue is not addressed in the statutes and regulations reviewed.

Exceptions for Stepparent or Relative Adoptions

This issue is not addressed in the statutes and regulations reviewed.

Requirements for Interjurisdictional Placements

Citation: Ann. Code Tit. 34, § 121

Any out-of-home placement of a child to a State outside the Virgin Islands is subject to the provisions of the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children.

The child shall not be sent into the receiving State until the appropriate public authorities in the receiving State notify the sending agency, in writing, that the proposed placement does not appear to be contrary to the interests of the child.

Foster to Adopt Placements

This issue is not addressed in the statutes and regulations reviewed.

Links to Resources

Court rules (click on 4. Virgin Islands Rules of Family Division Procedure; see part G--Rules for Adoption Proceedings)