Massachusetts § 2A - Decree of adoption; entry; conditions precedent
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 2A — Decree of adoption; entry; conditions precedent, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 2A. Decree of adoption; entry; conditions precedent
Section 2A. No decree of adoption shall be entered for the adoption of a child below the age of fourteen until one of the following conditions has been met:—
(A) The child sought to be adopted has been placed with the petitioners for adoption by the department of children and families or by an agency authorized by said department for such purpose, or
(B) The petitioner is a blood relative of the child sought to be adopted, or
(C) The petitioner is a step-parent of the child sought to be adopted, or
(D) The petitioner was nominated in the will of a deceased natural parent of the child as a guardian or an adoptive parent, or
(E) The petition for adoption has been approved in writing by the department of children and families or by an agency authorized by said department. Any petitioner aggrieved by the refusal of the department or of an agency to approve such petition after being requested to do so, may appeal such refusal to the probate court in which the petition for adoption is pending, which court shall make final determination as to the allowance or dismissal of the petition.
Source: official Massachusetts text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 2A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 2A cover?
Section 2A ("Decree of adoption; entry; conditions precedent") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts § 2A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 2A" (Massachusetts). 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 Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 2A apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts.