Relative Caretaker Documents Package (New Mexico)

This package contains summaries of state laws and valuable information to assist with placing a child with a relative. Purchase of this package is a savings of more than 50% over purchase of the guides or forms individually!

This package contains the following guides and form:

Placement of Children With Relatives - This publication summarizes state laws and statutes regarding placement of children with relatives when they are removed from their home and enter foster care. In order for states to receive federal payments for foster care and adoption assistance, federal law requires that they "consider giving preference to an adult relative over a nonrelated caregiver when determining placement for a child, provided that the relative caregiver meets all relevant state child protection standards." Most states give preference or priority to relative placements in their statutes. This publication discusses definitions of "relative," financial support for relative placement, and adoption by relatives.

The Rights of Presumed (Putative) Fathers - This informational guide discusses the rights of the alleged fathers of children born out-of-wedlock and whether states have registries for such fathers.

Disclosure of Confidential Child Abuse and Neglect Records - This guide contains summaries of statutes detailing the officials who may have access to confidential records and the circumstances under which information may be disclosed.

Grounds for Involuntary Termination of Parental Rights - This publication reviews state laws that detail the specific circumstances that must be present when a court terminates the legal parent-child relationship.

Power of Attorney for the Care and Custody of Child- This Power of Attorney is a form which provides for the appointment of an attorney-in-fact for the care of a child or children, including health care. This Power of Attorney form requires that the signature of the person giving another the power of attorney to be notarized.