Pennsylvania law allows parties, including children over 12, to seek discontinuance of an adoption agreement through court action, requiring a clear and convincing evidence standard. Additionally, the law mandates the development of procedures by the Department of Human Services to facilitate and resolve agreements involving county child welfare agencies, ensuring clear guidance and timely availability to county agencies.
A party to the agreement or a child aged 12 or older can file a court action to seek discontinuance.
The court must find by clear and convincing evidence that discontinuance is in the best interest of the child.
The department has created procedures to facilitate agreement development, modification, enforcement, and discontinuance involving county child welfare agencies.
They will be made available within 180 days after the effective date of the relevant subchapter.