The Adoption and Children (Scotland) Act 2007 is an Act of the Scottish Parliament and the chief source of law relating to adoption in Scotland.

Chapter One of the Act imposes a duty on all of Scotland's 32 local authorities to provide an adoption service in their area.

[1] Chapter Two sets out the legislative framework behind the adoption process in Scotland.

In deciding whether to make an adoption order, granting Parental Rights and Responsibilities (PRR) on the adopter with respect to the child (or children), the court must "regard the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child throughout the child's life as the paramount consideration", with particular emphasis on: For a couple to adopt a child, the following personal criteria must be fulfilled: A single person may adopt a child if they are aged over 21, domiciled in the UK or Ireland, and are either in a marriage, civil partnership or cohabiting relationship with the parent of the child.

[4] Generally, the consent of an adoptee's parents or guardians who have Parental Rights & Responsibilities under the Children (Scotland) Act 1995 towards the child must be obtained before the court will issue an adoption order.