A family who has adopted, or plans on adopting a child in Kansas must be aware of certain required forms they must file with the Department of Health and Environment. The process of adopting a child can be intricate and the requirements can be difficult to satisfy if you are unaware of the steps you must take. Based on the stage of adoption you are in there are a variety of documents, reports and other fulfillments that adoptive parents must submit in order to alleviate delays, complications or denials. Certain agencies, birth mothers and entities have different subjective requirements so it is important to fully educate yourself in order to be adequately prepared.
Filing a Report of Adoption for a Child Born Inside or Outside of Kansas
After the adoption process is complete in the state of Kansas the state requires that an adoption report be filed with the Department of Health and Environment. A Certified copy of the Adoption Decree must also be submitted in order to complete all adoption requirements. The Report of Adoption is especially important because it is the document the judge or the clerk of court signs and certifies after the adoption has been legally granted. If the child was born outside the state of Kansas the Report of Adoption must be sent directly to that state, or to the Kansas office who will then send it directly to that state. It is important to consult with the state of birth to ensure you are using the proper and required form or speak with a Kansas Adoption Attorney who can assist you in filing properly.
Filing For a Foreign Born Adoption
Parents who adopt a child who was born outside of the United States can file for a certificate on file for the child. This certificate does not grant the child citizenship; citizenship can only be granted through the federal government. A Decree of Adoption and Report of Adoption must also be filed with the court in Kansas if the child was adopted out of state. If the adoption was completed in the child’s country of origin, an English translation and evidence of lawful entry must be properly filed with the clerk of court.
Obtaining a Before Adoption Birth Certificate
Original birth records are sealed before adoptions are complete. Because of this, adoptive parents often desire to obtain an uncertified birth certificate to satisfy certain logistical requirements. At the request of the adoptee (if over the age of 18) or at the order of the court, original sealed records may be opened, or an uncertified copy of the before adoption birth certificate may be requested. If an adoptive parent wishes to obtain an uncertified copy of the before adoption birth certificate, the adoptee must submit a written notarized request.
Call a Kansas Adoption Attorney Today With Your Adoption Questions
Kansas Adoption Attorney Tom McDowell has over 40 years of experience in the area of adoption and helping build families. He understands the intricacies of the adoption process and helps ensure that you complete your adoption successfully. Call Kansas Adoption Lawyer Tom McDowell at McDowell Chartered Legal Services today at (316) 633-4322 to properly file for adoption.