The 5 Colorado Adoption Laws You Need to Know

Adoption laws vary in each state. Everything from a birth father's rights to open adoption can be different from state to state. We've gathered the five most important Colorado adoption laws you need to know about when considering this for your family.

Top 5 Colorado Adoption Laws

Birth Father's Legal Rights

Does my baby's father have to agree to the adoption in Colorado?

Consent is required of both parents unless:

Colorado does not have a putative father registry, but does allow a father to be added to the child’s birth certificate.

Colo. Dept. of Pub. Health and Ent., Parentage

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Expectant/Birth Mother Living Expenses

Can I get help with my living expenses during my pregnancy in a Colorado adoption?

In Colorado, attorney’s fees and other expenses may be covered upon approval of the court.

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 19-5-213(a-b) (2020)

Separate Legal Representation

Will I be offered my own Colorado adoption lawyer?

This issue is not addressed under Colorado law. You still need to make sure you have your own attorney paid for by the agency or adoptive parents. Any family you choose from AdoptMatch will make sure you have your own attorney.

Open Adoption

How does Open Adoption work in Colorado?

This issue is not addressed under Colorado law. This means that any agreement about open adoption in Colorado is based only on a promise, and will not be enforced by a court. It's still very important that whatever you agree to is written down and signed by everyone. 

Click here for a map showing which states enforce open adoption agreements.

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How does Consent to Adoption work in Colorado?

How does the legal process for adoption work in Colorado?

Consent may be given before or after the child is born.

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 19-5-103.5(b)(I) (2020)

How long will I have to change my mind about adoption in Colorado?

Consent may be withdrawn anytime after signing but before the affidavit and petition are filed with the court. Then consent becomes irrevocable unless there is clear and convincing evidence of fraud or duress.

Colo. Rev. Stat. § 19-5-204 (2020)

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