Deciding to adopt a child is just the first of many decisions you will make throughout the adoption process. The next important thing you must decide is how you will adopt. There are several different types of adoptions available to prospective Kansas parents, including domestic, interstate, and international adoption. Within these types of adoption are several sub-types, such as open or closed adoption.
The following is a look at two types of adoption: interstate and international adoption. We will discuss the basics of these types of adoption along with the pros and cons of each.
Interstate Adoptions
Interstate adoption involves the adoption of children usually four years and older from an agency in another state. These children are generally within the foster care system in their state.
Pros: There are over 500,000 children in the U.S. foster care system, so this option not only provides a much needed home for a foster care child, but there will also not be a wait for a child. In this scenario, you will also be able to select a child that will be a great fit for your family. You can meet with the child and spend time with him or her before deciding to adopt. Interstate adoptions are typically inexpensive and most states will further subsidize the costs. An interstate adoption can often be completed in six months to a year and you will not have the uncertainty that can come with a domestic adoption in which the birth mother can change her mind.
Cons: There can be challenges associated with adopting a slightly older child. Foster care children may have had unstable or unpleasant childhoods, so behavioral issues are a possibility. If you wish to adopt a baby, this will not be the best option for you as most children are four years old and up.
International Adoptions
International adoptions have become popular in recent years, with many families adopting children from countries like Ethiopia, Haiti, and China. International adoptions can involve children as young as four months.
Pros: There are millions of children worldwide living in desperate foster care conditions. You can offer a new life for a child born internationally here in the U.S. International adoptions will not come with the fear of the birth mother changing her mind, as is involved in domestic adoptions. Further, once the adoption is complete, you will not generally have to worry about communication from the birth parents. Those seeking babies will often be able to find them using international adoption.
Cons: International adoptions will usually involve some international travel. Depending upon the country, you may have to live there for a few weeks. These adoptions can be costly depending upon the country involved. Further, you often will have little information as to your child’s medical and general family history.
Choosing the Right Adoption for You
Interstate and international adoptions are just two of the options available to prospective adoptive parents. With the help of a licensed adoption attorney, you can select the best type of adoption for your family.
McDowell Chartered: Creating Families
The Kansas Adoption Lawyers at McDowell Chartered have decades of experience assisting families in domestic, interstate, and international adoptions. Some of our clients come to us with the arrangements for a private adoption already made. Others ask our adoption staff to assist them in locating a child. In either situation, our experienced adoption attorneys can help you create the family you desire. Since 1992, our compassionate attorney team has provided quality legal services to families throughout Kansas, simplifying and expediting the adoption process. Call us today at (316) 633-4322 for an initial consultation.