Utah Adoption Process
The Adoption Process in Utah: Step-by-Step
Adoption in Utah follows a consistent framework under Utah Code §78B-6 and the 2026 updates from H.B. 51. Here's how the process typically unfolds.
6-Step Utah Process
- 1
Contact and intake
Birth mothers: call a counselor 24/7. Adoptive families: begin your application.
- 2
Adoption plan / home study
Birth mothers shape an adoption plan with their counselor. Adoptive families complete a state-licensed home study (typically 3 to 6 months).
- 3
Matching
Birth mothers review home-study-approved families and choose.
- 4
Pregnancy support and preparation
Counseling, medical coordination, independent legal counsel for birth mothers. For out-of-state birth mothers, ICPC and H.B. 51 Medicaid verification.
- 5
Placement and consent
In Utah, consent is signed no earlier than 24 hours after birth, and is irrevocable upon signing.
- 6
Post-placement and finalization
Post-placement visits (typically 3 to 6 months), then court finalization, typically within 6 months of placement in Utah.