North Dakota § 14-15-12 - Required residence of minor
Full text of North Dakota North Dakota Century Code § 14-15-12 — Required residence of minor, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 14-15-12. Required residence of minor
1. A final decree of adoption may not be issued and an interlocutory decree of adoption does not become final, until the minor to be adopted, other than a stepchild of the petitioner, has lived in the adoptive home: a. For at least six months after placement by an agency; b. For six months after placement by a parent in accordance with an identified relinquishment under chapter 14-15.1; c. As a foster child for at least six months and has been placed for adoption by an agency; or d. For at least six months after the department and human service zone or the court has been informed of the custody of the minor by the petitioner, and the department and human service zone or the court has had an opportunity to observe or investigate the adoptive home. 2. If a child who has been placed for adoption dies before the six-month residency requirement of subsection 1 is met, the court may grant the final decree of adoption upon a finding that a proper and legitimate reason exists for granting the final decree.
Source: official North Dakota text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About North Dakota § 14-15-12
What does North Dakota Century Code § 14-15-12 cover?
Section 14-15-12 ("Required residence of minor") is part of the North Dakota Century Code, the codified statutory law of North Dakota. 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 North Dakota § 14-15-12?
A common citation format is "North Dakota Century Code § 14-15-12" (North Dakota). 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 North Dakota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the North Dakota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed North Dakota attorney.
How does North Dakota § 14-15-12 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in North Dakota 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 North Dakota.