Every year thousands of parents consider adoption and every year thousands of children are adopted by loving families. If you are exploring or considering the option of expanding your family through the legal process of adoption, it is important to prepare yourself through education and understanding of what is involved. There are a plethora of considerations to address prior to proceeding with the adoption process in the United States and it is recommended that you speak to an experienced and qualified Kansas adoption attorney. Because adoption involves many different individuals, it is important to embrace the needs of each individual and ensure that the totality of the future family dynamic is optimal. The following are important facets of adoption that should be addressed and considered prior to proceeding with the legal process.
Financial Status and Living Environment
Oftentimes an assumption exists that adoptive parents must be wealthy in order to adequately provide for a child. Although a child’s basic needs must be met, a substantial salary or income is not required in order to adopt. Also, prospective adoptive parents do not need to own their own home, a common misconception amongst prospective parents. The focus when assessing whether a person or couple is fit to adopt a child lies in whether the child will be suitably cared for and raised in a healthy, loving and stable environment. A home study will often be conducted in order to further investigate the living environment and the parents who wish to adopt a child. This gives the court a better understanding as to the type of life the child will be entering into and whether or not it is in his or her best interest to be raised there.
Pre-Adoption Screening and Application
In addition to a home study conducted by an agency representative, there are additional and necessary steps adoptive parents must take. A pre-service training may also be required in order to educate families on the process and discuss what to expect as an adoptive parent. It is recommended that prospective parents also seek knowledge from additional resources, whether through support groups, books or movies, or discussions with friends or family members who have also adopted.
After the prerequisite training and home study have been conducted, an individual or couple will submit an application for adoption. These individuals will also have to submit letters of reference, a criminal background check and verification of the household’s income to ensure financial suitability.
How an Experienced Kansas Conservatorship Attorney Can Help With Your Adoption Today
Our law firm supports the expansion of families through the legal process of adoption, and the individuals that seek to do so. Kansas Adoption Attorney Tom McDowell understands the intricacies of the process and has helped many couples successfully adopt. Call McDowell Chartered Legal Services today at (316) 633-4322 to see how we can assist you with your family’s adoption today.