Can Transgender People Adopt?
No state has a law that specifically bars transgender people from adopting. But that is far from a guarantee that adoption agencies and judges will be welcoming of transgender applicants.
Shannon Minter, senior staff attorney at the National Center for Lesbian Rights, has advised, "Practically speaking ... you are likely to encounter ignorance or bias about transgender people on the part of some adoption agencies, child welfare workers or courts, which may require you to do some basic education about what it means to be transgender."
How can you increase your chances of winning support? Minter and others suggest:
- Contact adoption agencies that are known to welcome lesbian and gay parents and which may, therefore, also be open to working with families that include a transgender parent. Search HRC's database of LGBT-friendly adoption agencies.
- Have a supportive therapist or doctor with expertise in transgender issues available to help you address any questions or concerns raised by social workers, adoption officials or courts.
- Seek the counsel of an attorney with experience in transgender issues. His or her familiarity with transgender law can make or break a case. Search attorney referrals in your area.
Find out more about adoption laws in your state.