Rhode Island § 15-7-18 - Adoption of Children
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 15-7-18 — Adoption of Children, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-7-18. Adoption of Children
R.I. Gen. Laws § 15-7-18
§ 15-7-18. Denial of petition — Order as to custody of child.
(a) Upon hearing before the family court on any petition for adoption, if it finds that the petition for adoption is not for the best interest of the child and denies the petition, the court shall have the power to order the child returned to the person, persons, or licensed agency legally entitled to custody.
(b) The failure of a person having the physical control of the child to place the child in accordance with the order of the family court shall constitute contempt which may be punished by the court by imprisonment in the adult correctional institutions until such time as he or she purges himself or herself.
History of Section.
G.L. 1938, ch. 420, § 14; P.L. 1955, ch. 3483, § 1; impl. am. P.L. 1956, ch. 3721,
§ 1; G.L. 1956, § 15-7-18; P.L. 1970, ch. 132, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 15-7-18
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 15-7-18 cover?
Section 15-7-18 ("Adoption of Children") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island § 15-7-18?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 15-7-18" (Rhode Island). 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 Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 15-7-18 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.