Adoption

In Ohio, an unmarried adult, unmarried minor parent of an adoptee, or married couple may adopt a child.  If the child to be adopted is 12 years old or older, he or she must consent to the adoption.  Ohio requires a six-month home residency and completion of a home study and fingerprinting prior to finalization of the adoption.

Guardianship

The probate court is the superior guardian of those place in guardianships and is responsible for monitoring guardians to make sure they fulfill their duties. Guardianship is a restrictive protective service available when individuals are unable to care for their own basic needs, finances, or medical issues and when a less-restrictive alternative is not feasible.