Who May Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption - District of Columbia

Date: January 2020

Who May Adopt

Citation: Ann. Code § 16-302

Any person may adopt. A married person must petition jointly with his or her spouse, unless the other spouse is the natural parent of the person to be adopted.

Who May Be Adopted

Citation: Ann. Code § 16-303

Any minor or adult may be adopted.

Who May Place a Child for Adoption

Citation: Ann. Code § 4-1405

Only the following may place a child for adoption:

  • The parent
  • A guardian
  • A relative within the third degree
  • A licensed child-placing agency