Who May Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption - Northern Mariana Islands
Who May Adopt
Citation: Commonwealth Code Tit. 8, § 1403
Any adult resident who meets the following criteria may adopt:
- Unmarried
- Married to the legal parent
- Husband and wife jointly
- At least 10 years older than the child to be adopted
Who May Be Adopted
Citation: Commonwealth Code Tit. 8, § 1402
Any person under age 18 may be adopted.
The court may allow the adoption of persons over age 18 if in conformance with local custom but not for the purpose of evading the law.
Who May Place a Child for Adoption
Citation: Commonwealth Code Tit. 8, § 1404
A child may be placed by any of the following:
- The mother
- The legal father
- Any person or agency having legal custody of the child