In re Y.L.

We are asked in this case whether, under New Hampshire's adoption statute, see RSA ch. 170-B (2014 & Supp. 2017), the petitioner, J.P., an unmarried male, may become the adoptive father of Y.L., an adult female, without altering the legal parental status of Y.L.'s birth mother-as all three so desire. Contrary to the finding of the Circuit Court ( Quigley , J.), we believe that he may and, consequently, we reverse and remand.

As an unmarried adult, J.P. is plainly eligible to adopt under this state's adoption statute. See RSA 170-B:4, II (2014). Equally evident is that, as an adult who assents…