I Want to Adopt
Helping a child and parent become a family is one of the most rewarding duties of the Court.
Whether you are a two-parent family, single parent, or stepparent, adoption creates a lasting
and meaningful bond.
Probate Court is responsible for finalizing all adoptions within Belmont County.
Depending on your situation, there are several ways to successfully complete an adoption.
Upon completion of a home study and all legal requirements, the Court determines whether
the prospective parent is the right fit for the child. Legal counsel is required.
Types of Adoption
Public Agency Adoption:
Adoption of a child in the custody of a public agency.
Adoption of a child in the custody of a public agency.
Private Agency Adoption:
Adoption of a child in the custody of a private agency.
Adoption of a child in the custody of a private agency.
Private Adoption:
Adoption of a child not previously placed in your home.
Adoption of a child not previously placed in your home.
Private Adoption – Legal Placement:
Adoption of a child already legally placed in your home.
Adoption of a child already legally placed in your home.
Stepparent Adoption:
Adoption by a custodial parent’s spouse.
Adoption by a custodial parent’s spouse.
Foreign Re-Adoption:
Recognition of a foreign adoption and issuance of an Ohio birth certificate.
Recognition of a foreign adoption and issuance of an Ohio birth certificate.
Adult Adoption:
Adoption of an individual over the age of 18.
Adoption of an individual over the age of 18.
Foreign Birth Record Request:
Request an Ohio birth record for a foreign-born adopted child.
Request an Ohio birth record for a foreign-born adopted child.