Code of Massachusetts Regulations
110 CMR - DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
Title 110 CMR 4.00 - Intake
Intake for Voluntary Requests for Services
Section 4.15 - Surrenders For Adoption

Universal Citation: 110 CMR 4.00 MA Code of Regs 4.15

Current through Register 1531, September 27, 2024

(1) The Department's social services are available to any birth parent(s) who voluntarily surrender their child(ren), to assist the parent(s) with the loss of their child(ren). Such services may include, but need not be limited to:

(a) counseling on separation and loss;

(b) involvement in a surrendering parent support group.

(2) The Department shall observe the following procedures prior to taking a voluntary Surrender from a birth parent:

(a) Explore alternatives to voluntary surrender with the parent(s), including casework services to assist parent(s) and child(ren) to remain together.

(b) If casework services are accepted, provide the services set forth in the service plan.

(c) If services are declined, the social worker shall record in writing in the case record the offer and declination of services.

(d) Before accepting a surrender, the social worker shall collect and record in the case record psycho-social and medical information about the child and the child's biological family.

(e) When one of the birth parent(s) is not present, the social worker shall obtain information relevant to assisting in locating the parent, so that placement or surrender can be explored.

(3) All surrenders shall be taken in conformity with M.G.L. c. 210, § 2. In addition:

(a) Parent(s) seeking to surrender their child(ren) shall be encouraged to bring two witnesses of their own choice in order to execute the surrender(s).

(b) In the event parent(s) decline to bring two witnesses of their own choice, one or more department employees shall act as witness on the parents' behalf.

(c) The Department will accept a voluntary surrender from any parent, including any parent who is a mature child, in conformity with 110 CMR 4.01 through 4.15. When a parent who is a mature child seeks to voluntarily surrender a minor child, the Department shall first explore with the mature child parent alternative family resources, including adoption by an extended family member.

(d) Parents of Indian (Native American) heritage shall be informed of their rights pursuant to the Indian Child Welfare Act.

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