Arizona Search and Support Header

Adoption Statute and Code in Arizona

When triad members begin the journey of search, many wonder why they should have an interest in the laws pertaining to adoption. After all... the adoption is over and done with. But as their search takes them to the need for documentation of their relinquishment or adoption, they soon realize the importance of existing law and their access to even the slightest bits of information.

A keen understanding of adoption law yesterday and today, as it governs adoption agencies, the courts, and family members themselves, will assist many searchers who earnestly seek answers to their past and to know the rest of the story.

The law is nothing to shy away from. It is the People's tool to receive compliance from private and governmental entities. And it can be amended, by the families of adoption, to restore rights to better match excellence in adoption policy and practice today.

ARS and AAC

Arizona Revised Statute (ARS) and Arizona Administrative Code (AAC) both govern adoptions in Arizona. These Statutes and Codes are divided into Titles and Chapters. The Chapters of most interest to triad members include:

Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 8, Chapter 1 - Adoption

Arizona Revised Statutes, Title 36, Chapter 3 - Vital Records

Arizona Administrative Code, Title 6, Chapter 5 - Adoption and Child Placing Agencies

Arizona Administrative Code, Title 9, Chapter 19 - Vital Records and Statistics

Arizona Code of Judicial Administration, Section 7-203 - Confidential Intermediary

Throughout the Arizona Search and Support web site, you will locate reference to these chapters and citation to specific sections. We hope they will serve you well on your quest to learn.