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Important Considerations When Seeking to Adopt

Important Considerations When Seeking to Adopt
November 1, 2013 James Greenier

Adoption laws vary from state to state and by agency. Such laws and policies govern the entire process and also determine who is eligible to adopt. Included in this determination are several general requirements that most agencies will review when concluding if an individual or couple is right for adoption. Prospective parents should be aware that state and county procedural and legal factors are generally unalterable. Adoption agencies will also have additional restrictions for adoptive parents as well. Some of the criteria may be established by the objectives of the agency, and the types of adoptions the agency offers.  Under certain circumstances, an agency may be willing to make exceptions, due to the fact that every aspect of agency criteria is not decided by law.  In some situations, birth parents may place conditions on adoptive individuals or couples. Ultimately, birth parents can determine who they believe are qualified to be the parents of their child.  Another facet of the process to regard, is that potential adoptive parents have their own limitations to consider, some off which include health, age, social factors, and financial status, which they need to feel comfortable about before proceeding with the adoption.

Adoption is undoubtedly a life-changing decision, and will generally affect your overall lifestyle. More noticeably than other aspects, especially initially, are the expenses and costs involved depending on the kind of adoption you pursue. Service fees, travel expenses, and preparing for a new family member, are some of the costs associated with adoption.  The final amount can vary from a several thousand dollars to well over $45,000. Apart from a prospective adoptive individual or parent outlining his or her desires, it is also important to create an adoption plan that is realistic and organized.

Most phases of the adoption process can be a personalized experience. People who were once regarded as non-traditional prospective adopters are now able to find placements. Additionally, individuals or couples with financial constraints can adopt a child and receive tax credits or reimbursements to offset adoption expenses.

There are several steps in the adoption process, the first being the home study. Prior to prospective adopters meeting with a caseworker, it is necessary that he or she reflect on why adoption is the right choice.  Some questions to ask yourself: Why am I adopting? What kind of child am I looking to take care of and bring into my life? Do I have the financial and social resources and lifestyle to accommodate this child? Do I have realistic expectations? How is my own emotional status? Have I adequately dealt with any infertility issues or failed treatments in the past?

Once a prospective adopter meets a caseworker and passes the home study, the next step is simply awaiting placement. The wait time varies tremendously. It can take anywhere from a several months to a few years. However, in the meantime, you can scope out possible agencies, attorneys or advertising to improve your opportunities of placement. Prospective adopters looking to adopt an older child may desire to become familiar with the available children in their own community. Speaking with a public agency or looking through photo listings online may provide a more realistic idea of available children, including the age range.

Creating an infant adoption plan tends to be more complicated.  Often times there are also more fees associated with this category of adoption. The process itself may involve additional steps, including prospective adopters meeting with a birth mother for an interview prior to placement. Ultimately, maintaining records of all of receipts is key for the finalizing the process, as well as asserting the adoption tax credit.

Contact McDowell Chartered legal services today at 316-269-0746 for more information on adoption and getting started with the process!