New Hampshire § 170-B-20 - Section 170-B:20 Dismissal of Adoption Proceedings.
Full text of New Hampshire New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 170-B-20 — Section 170-B:20 Dismissal of Adoption Proceedings., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 170-B-20. Section 170-B:20 Dismissal of Adoption Proceedings.
I. If at any time between the filing of a petition and the issuance of the final order completing the adoption it is known to the court that circumstances are such that the adoptee should not be adopted, the court may dismiss the proceedings. II. Before entering an order to dismiss the proceedings and prior to a hearing, the court shall give notice of not less than 5 days to the petitioners and to the department or agency having made the assessment, and they shall be entitled to be present at such hearing to admit or refute the facts upon which the impending action of the court is based. III. If the petition is dismissed or withdrawn, the custody of the minor child shall revert to the department or agency having had custody prior to the filing of the petition. In all other cases when a petition is dismissed or withdrawn, the minor child shall be placed in the custody of the department and the court shall order the department to make further assessment and report to the court regarding a suitable plan for the future well-being of the minor child. IV. The court may order and require persons having an obligation, to contribute to the support and maintenance of the minor child in such amounts and at such times as it determines are just and reasonable.
Source: official New Hampshire text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About New Hampshire § 170-B-20
What does New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 170-B-20 cover?
Section 170-B-20 ("Section 170-B:20 Dismissal of Adoption Proceedings.") is part of the New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated, the codified statutory law of New Hampshire. 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 New Hampshire § 170-B-20?
A common citation format is "New Hampshire Revised Statutes Annotated § 170-B-20" (New Hampshire). 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 New Hampshire law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the New Hampshire official source linked on this page or consult a licensed New Hampshire attorney.
How does New Hampshire § 170-B-20 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire.