Test Your Knowledge

Adoption is the legal transfer of parental rights of a child from the biological parent(s) to adoptive parents. There are many reasons to choose adoption to start or expand a family, including infertility, single-parent household or same-sex partnership.

Regardless of the circumstances, the best way to approach adoption is to first gather as much information as possible. This generally includes learning about the process and the different options and methods for adopting a child.

The next step is to select an adoption agency or possibly a private attorney who specializes in this area of law. Agencies often hold orientations or information sessions for prospective parents at periodic intervals. Those who are just beginning to investigate adoption can gain valuable information from such sessions including the necessary steps, cost and time factors.

After selecting an agency or adoption attorney, the adoption process may progress to a home study. The home study is a comprehensive evaluation of the prospective parent or parents, their home life, attitudes about adoption, childrearing and parenting styles. During the home study process, which can take several months to complete, the prospective parents will have the opportunity to decide on their options for adoption (e.g., international or domestic adoption, age of child).

Once the home study is completed, the adoption personnel will make their recommendations. If the prospective parents are approved, they must wait for a child for placement. After a child is placed with a family, the adoption can be finalized, usually within six months of placement. For international adoptions, other steps may be necessary and additional paperwork is required through the State Department for immigration.