When it comes to adoptions, most families find that they have many questions, and getting answers is not always easy. Every family, and every adoption case, is very unique and often requires an individualized approach in order to be ultimately successful. At McDowell Chartered, we are well aware of the fact that you will have questions, and we are dedicated to helping you make sense of the adoption process. We have compiled a list of some of the most common questions concerning the basics of Kansas adoption, and offer brief answers that we hope will provide a bit of insight until we can meet with you in our office.
Most Common FAQs in Kansas Adoption
Q: Is it a requirement that I be married?
A: No. Current law allows divorced, single, or widowed individuals the ability to adopt.
Q: Is it a requirement that I own a home?
A: No. Adoptive parents must only prove that their residence is safe and well equipped to meet the demands of a growing family. Adoptive parents may reside in a house, apartment, or even a mobile home.
Q: What is a “home study?”
A: A home study is a document prepared by a caseworker after an evaluation of your family and the types of children that are best suited for you as parents. Sometimes referred to as a family assessment or profile, this document is designed for use between family caseworkers and child caseworkers in order to pair parents and children who are suitable for one another’s needs and desires.
Q: Are there income restrictions?
A: Adoptive parents, most often, are considered to have modest incomes. In many cases, families hoping to adopt, but who do not have the financial means, may find subsidies or financial aid of sorts available to help cover expenses.
Q: How much can I anticipate adoption costing?
A: The cost of adoption varies significantly depending on the agency. It is important to discuss all costs associated with adoption immediately when beginning the process.
Q: How long does the adoption process take?
A: The adoption process can take as little as a few months, or up to several years, depending on the individual case. For most Kansas families, the approval process alone takes between 4-6 months, with another 6-12 months for finalization. A large factor in the time the process takes is how long it takes to select and match children with adoptive parents.
Q: Is there a large selection of children to choose from?
A: Yes! There are hundreds if not thousands of children available for adoption in Kansas and Missouri. These children come from all sorts of backgrounds, race, and ethnicity. Most children available for adoption are eight years or older, though younger children are often available.
Q: What does it mean when a child has “special needs?”
A: A child with special needs most likely has a physical or mental limitation or disability. Special needs children sometimes require additional care, and in many cases, find it difficult to adjust to a change in their environment.
Get Answers to Your Adoption Questions
It is common to have many questions throughout the adoption process. Because adoption is such a significant event in your life, it is important that you have the support you need to manage all aspects of your case. At McDowell Chartered, we offer our clients confidential, comprehensive support to make the adoption process as successful and joyous as possible. Our office in Wichita, Kansas Adoption Attorney represents clients throughout the state, and in Missouri, in a variety of family law needs. Let our experience be the support you need to make your adoption a success. Contact our office today to set up an initial consultation by calling (316) 633-4322.