Alabama § 26-10E-12 - Express Consent - Contents.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 26-10E-12 — Express Consent - Contents., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 26-10E-12. Express Consent - Contents.
(a) An express consent of the biological mother taken prior to the birth of an adoptee shall be signed or confirmed before a judge of probate. At the time of taking the express consent, the judge shall explain to the consenting parent the legal effect of signing the document and the time limits and procedures for withdrawal of the express consent and shall provide the consenting parent with two copies of the form for withdrawing the express consent in accordance with the requirements of Sections 26-10E-13 and 26-10E-14.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (a), all other pre-birth or post-birth express consents or relinquishments regarding the adoptee shall be signed or confirmed before any of the following:
(1) A judge or clerk of any court that has jurisdiction over adoption proceedings or a public officer appointed by the judge for the purpose of taking express consents.
(2) An individual appointed to take express consents who is appointed by any agency that is authorized to conduct investigations or home studies provided by Section 26-10E-19, or, if the express consent is taken out of state, by an individual appointed to take consents by any agency that is authorized by that state’s law to conduct investigations and home studies for adoptions.
(3) A notary public.
(c) The Administrative Office of Courts, in collaboration with the Alabama Law Institute, a division of the Legislative Services Agency, shall prepare the forms necessary to meet the requirements of this chapter.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 26-10E-12
What does Code of Alabama § 26-10E-12 cover?
Section 26-10E-12 ("Express Consent - Contents.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 26-10E-12?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 26-10E-12" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 26-10E-12 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.