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SIBLING RESEARCH

The ABA has an entire toolkit for lawyers covering the research on the benefits of sibling connections. To find social science support for your in-court and out-of-court legal advocacy go to Sibling Relationships are Sacred: Benefits of Sibling Placement and Contact

STATE LAW SUMMARIES

This list is the result of a deep-dive search across all 50 states, DC, and PR. It serves as a directory of the legal research project on sibling connections for the National Network for Fostering Sibling Connections. 

The summaries below provide an overview of topics affecting sibling connections and youth rights such as whether the state has a sibling bill of rights, what the definitions of siblings are in each state and particular policies within each state around placement and visitation rights.

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Disclaimer: The following memos provide a general summary of laws related to sibling connections in foster care. These summaries were developed in 2025 and 2026  through a collaborative effort of pro bono attorneys, advocates, and individuals with lived experience as part of the National Network of Fostering Sibling Connections. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, laws, regulations, and policies may change, there can be mistakes,  and this summary may not reflect the most current legal developments or the full scope of applicable law. This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice, nor does it create an attorney-client relationship. The material should not be relied upon as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a qualified attorney regarding a specific situation. Individuals seeking guidance about their rights or obligations should consult a licensed attorney or appropriate legal professional in their jurisdiction. If you have updated information, or would like to submit changes please join our efforts and email cathy.krebs@americanbar.org

Thank you to Cathy Krebs and the Children’s Rights Litigation Committee of the American Bar Association Litigation Section for its support with this project and to the many volunteers, each of whom is acknowledged in the individual memos, for their time and effort in finalizing these summaries.

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