N.Y. Domestic Relations Law 109 – Definitions
§ 109. Definitions. When used in this article, unless the context or subject matter manifestly requires a different interpretation:
Terms Used In N.Y. Domestic Relations Law 109
- Authorized agency: shall mean an authorized agency as defined in the social services law and, for the purpose of this article, shall include such corporations incorporated or organized under the laws of this state as may be specifically authorized by their certificates of incorporation to receive children for purposes of adoption. See N.Y. Domestic Relations Law 109
- Judge: shall mean a judge of the family court of any county in the state. See N.Y. Domestic Relations Law 109
- Statute: A law passed by a legislature.
- Surrogate: shall mean the surrogate of any county in the state and any other judicial officer while acting in the capacity of surrogate. See N.Y. Domestic Relations Law 109
1. "Adoptive parent" or "adoptor" shall mean a person adopting and "adoptive child" or "adoptee" shall mean a person adopted.
2. "Judge" shall mean a judge of the family court of any county in the state.
3. "Surrogate" shall mean the surrogate of any county in the state and any other judicial officer while acting in the capacity of surrogate.
4. "Authorized agency" shall mean an authorized agency as defined in the social services law and, for the purpose of this article, shall include such corporations incorporated or organized under the laws of this state as may be specifically authorized by their certificates of incorporation to receive children for purposes of adoption.
5. "Private-placement adoption" shall mean any adoption other than that of a minor who has been placed for adoption by an authorized agency.
6. "Lawful custody" shall mean a custody (a) specifically authorized by statute or (b) pursuant to judgment, decree or order of a court or (c) otherwise authorized by law.
7. "A child who has been surrendered to an authorized agency for the purpose of adoption" shall mean a child who has been surrendered to such an agency pursuant to the provisions of § 383 of the social services law.