Can someone who has been convicted of a felony ever adopt a child? In Utah and very curious.

Thanks

Hi,

I am a foster/adoptive parent. I am not aware of any law in any state that specifically prohibits a convicted felon from legally adopting a child.

I will say this, however. If you are attempting to get a home-study through an agency or through your state's DSS/DFS (whatever child protection is called there), then in will be quite a formidable hurdle. A home study will be the first step with any type of agency either public or private. This will be your biggest hurdle to overcome.

A felony isn't necessarily a show-stopper. Agencies consider the charge, the crime you were convicted of, the penalty you paid (fines, probation, prison term), nature of the crime (drugs, sex, violent), and how long ago the crime occurred. For example, let's say you are a 55 years old. When you were 20, you were convicted of grand theft auto. You got 2 years in prison, 2 years on paper (probation), and a certain amount of suspended sentence. You served your term, got out on good behavior, paid your probation, and got off paper. This crime was 35 years ago, and you are non-violent, and not a sex offender. I don't know of a single adoption agency, nor an employer, for that matter, that would hold that crime against you.

I hope this info helps.

Thank you so much! That is so encouraging! I will keep everything you said in mind! Thanks again - I really appreciate you replying!

I think it will depend on multiple factors: the crime, the proof of rehabilitation, the quality and quantity of character references and witnesses, whether there is a spouse and other family involved, and what is in the best interest of the child.