Wyoming Adoption Law
What Birth Mothers, Adoptive Families and Adoptees Need to Know
If you’re facing an unplanned pregnancy or exploring how to grow your family through adoption, understanding Wyoming adoption law is essential.
Every step of the process — from choosing adoption to finalizing it in court — follows specific legal guidelines designed to protect everyone involved. Knowing what to expect can make the process feel more manageable.
In the guide below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about adoption law in Wyoming. If you’re ready to take your next step, contact our adoption specialists today for personalized support.
For Birth Mothers: Your Legal Rights
Can I choose adoption for my baby?
Yes. As part of birth mother rights in Wyoming, you can choose adoption for your baby. You will need to voluntarily terminate your parental rights for the adoption to proceed legally.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109
When can I give my baby up for adoption?
There is no mandatory adoption waiting period in Wyoming, which means you may sign adoption consent forms at any time after your baby is born. However, you should be emotionally ready and fully informed before making this decision.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109
Can I get my baby back after adoption?
Generally, no. Once you give legal consent in Wyoming, there is no revocation period. The only exceptions are if your consent was obtained through fraud or duress.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109
Can you do adoption without the father's consent?
Sometimes, yes. If the father has not established legal paternity, has not supported you during pregnancy or cannot be located after reasonable efforts, then the court may waive his consent. However, if he has legally established his parental rights and has been involved, his consent will be required.
Relevant Laws: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109, § 1-22-110
Do both birth parents have to sign adoption papers in Wyoming?
Yes. Both parents generally need to sign adoption papers. However, the court may allow the adoption to proceed without one parent's consent if that parent has abandoned the child, is unfit or if other exceptions under the law apply.
Relevant Laws: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109, § 1-22-110
Can I get paid for adoption?
No. It is illegal to receive payment for placing a child for adoption. However, you may be able to receive financial assistance for pregnancy-related expenses such as medical care, housing, transportation and counseling services.
Relevant Law: 18 U.S. Code § 2251A
Can you choose who adopts your baby?
Yes. You can choose the adoptive parents for your baby. If you are working with an agency, you will be able to view profiles of waiting families and select the one that aligns with your values and preferences.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-103
Can people from a different state adopt my baby?
Yes. People from other states can adopt your child. Wyoming participates in the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC), which ensures that both states involved meet all legal requirements and approve the placement.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. §14-5-101
Can I give my baby up for adoption without any agency?
Yes. Independent adoption is allowed in Wyoming. However, you must still follow all required legal steps.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-104
Can my spouse adopt my child?
Yes. If you are married and your spouse wants to adopt your child, this is possible through a stepparent adoption. The other biological parent's rights will need to be voluntarily terminated or legally ended through court proceedings.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-103
Can my family adopt my baby?
Yes. Relatives are permitted to adopt your baby in Wyoming.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-103
Can you anonymously put a baby up for adoption?
Mostly, yes. Your name and information will be known to the court and the adoption agency for legal purposes, but you can still choose a semi-open or closed adoption that keeps your identity confidential from the adoptive family.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109
Can I have contact with my child after the adoption?
Yes. You can choose to have an open adoption in Wyoming. You may receive letters, photos, updates and even have visits. Although these agreements are not legally enforceable in Wyoming, most families honor them because they see the benefit of maintaining that connection for everyone involved.
More Information: https://www.americanadoptions.com/adopt/open_adoption
How does tribal adoption work for Native American children?
If your child is a member of or eligible for membership in a federally recognized tribe, then the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) will apply. ICWA requires that the child’s tribe is notified and given preference for placement with a Native family whenever possible.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 14-6-703
Can I drop my baby off at a fire station?
Yes. You may safely surrender your baby at a designated location under Wyoming's Safe Haven Law. This includes fire stations, hospitals and police stations. Your baby must be 60 days old or younger. There will be no legal consequences as long as the baby is safe and the law is followed.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 14-11-103
What rights do biological parents have after adoption?
Once the adoption is finalized, biological parents no longer have any legal rights or responsibilities to the child. However, if you choose an open adoption, you can still maintain a relationship with the child and their adoptive family .
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-114
For Adoptive Families: Starting Your Family with Confidence
Do you have to be married to adopt in Wyoming?
No. You do not have to be married to adopt in Wyoming. Any adult who has lived in the state for at least 60 days may file a petition to adopt. This includes single individuals and legally married couples.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-103
How old do you have to be to adopt a baby?
You must be at least 18 years old to adopt a child in Wyoming. The law does not set a maximum age limit, although agencies may establish age guidelines based on what is in the best interest of the child.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-103
Do you need a home study for a private adoption in Wyoming?
Yes. A home study is required for all adoptions. A licensed professional will evaluate your home, lifestyle, background and readiness to adopt.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-111
Do you need a home study for an independent adoption?
Yes. Even if you are not working with an agency, you must still complete a home study conducted by an authorized professional. This report must be submitted with your adoption petition and reviewed by the court before finalization.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-111
Can you adopt without an agency?
Yes. Wyoming allows for independent adoptions. However, legal procedures still apply. In many cases, you may also need a lawyer to adopt in Wyoming, especially to ensure your paperwork and consent process comply with state laws.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-104
What are the steps to adopt?
The steps to adopt a baby in Wyoming include:
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Completing a home study with a licensed provider
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Being chosen by an expectant parent and obtaining legal consent
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Filing your adoption petition in court
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Completing a six-month post-placement supervision period
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Finalizing the adoption through a court hearing, where the judge issues a final decree
Relevant Laws: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109, § 1-22-106, § 1-22-104, § 1-22-112
Can you adopt a child from another state?
Yes. You can adopt a child from another state. The ICPC process ensures both states approve the placement and that all legal requirements are met before the child moves across state lines.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. §14-5-101
Can we advertise for a birth mother?
Yes. Adoptive families may advertise to connect with an expectant parent. However, any outreach must avoid illegal payments, coercion or undue pressure. Working with an adoption attorney or agency can help ensure you comply with all legal and ethical guidelines.
Relevant Law: 18 U.S. Code § 2251A
Can a birth father stop an adoption?
Yes. A birth father can object to an adoption if he has established legal paternity, provided support and demonstrated ongoing involvement in the child’s life. If he has not done these things, the court may determine that his consent is not required.
Relevant Laws: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109, § 1-22-110
What if the birth parents don't sign adoption papers?
If the birth parents do not sign the necessary legal documents, the adoption cannot proceed unless the court determines that their consent is not required.
Relevant Laws: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109, § 1-22-110
When is an adoption finalized in Wyoming?
The time to finalize an adoption in Wyoming depends on the specific case. Finalization occurs after the home study is completed, all required consents are filed and the post-placement supervision period (six months) is over. The court then holds a final hearing and issues a decree of adoption.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-112
Can birth mothers change their mind?
Generally, no. Wyoming does not allow for a revocation period after legal consent has been given. Consent is considered permanent unless it was obtained by fraud or duress.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-109
Are adoptive parents on the birth certificate in Wyoming?
Yes. Once the adoption is finalized, a new birth certificate is issued that lists the adoptive parents as the child’s legal parents. The child’s name can also be changed if the adoptive parents request it. The original birth certificate is sealed and kept confidential.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 35-1-417
What rights do adoptive parents have after adoption?
Adoptive parents have full and permanent legal rights over the child. This includes making all decisions regarding the child’s healthcare and education. The child also gains the right to inherit from their adoptive family.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 1-22-114
Are open adoptions legally binding in Wyoming?
No. Wyoming law does not enforce open adoption agreements. However, many adoptive families willingly maintain contact because of the emotional benefits for everyone involved. At a minimum, we request that families be open to sending updates and photos, as well as scheduling one in-person visit within the child’s first five years.
More Information: https://www.americanadoptions.com/adopt/pictures_letters
Does ICWA apply to private adoptions in Wyoming?
Yes, the ICWA applies to all adoptions involving a child who is a member of or eligible for membership in a federally recognized tribe. This law protects tribal rights and requires specific notice and placement procedures.
Relevant Law: Wyo. Stat. § 14-6-703
What support is available after adoption?
After adoption, support services may include counseling, access to medical and background information and financial assistance for special needs adoptions arranged through the state. Your agency may also provide educational resources and referrals to support groups.
More Information: https://www.americanadoptions.com/adopt/post-adoption-support-services
For Adoptees
If your adoption was completed through our agency, you may request non-identifying information about your background or pursue reunification, if both parties agree. Our team can help guide you through this process.
Resources are also available to help you understand your legal rights and access adoption records when permitted by law. Learn more about your adoptee rights.
What’s Next?
Navigating Wyoming adoption law can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our licensed adoption specialists are here to help you move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to begin your adoption journey.
Disclaimer
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