Adoption is an exciting opportunity to expand your family and provide a loving home to a child that needs one. However, it also involves a confusing legal process that can intimidate and overwhelm many adoptive parents. Understanding the steps involved can help you navigate the system and relieve some of the anxiety and confusion you might be experiencing.

A Guide to the Adoption Process

1. Choose a Program

Each state offers a variety of avenues through which prospective parents may adopt a child. For instance, families looking for babies may want to hire an attorney to arrange an adoption independently, or you might prefer to use an agency. Most states also let prospective parents adopt a child out of the foster program and into a stable home.

2. Complete the Home Study

Before granting parental rights, the state requires you to complete a home study to determine whether you’re a suitable choice for adoption. The study may comprise several meetings, during which you’ll be asked to produce birth certificates, provider references, and allow the social worker to tour your house.

3. Accept the Referral

Once the home study is complete, the agency issues a referral, which is essentially an approval to adopt. Depending on the program, you may receive a notice of acceptance from the birth parents, or an agency may provide a list of children to choose from.

4. Finalizing the Paperwork

Legalizing the adoption involves extensive paperwork and may require you to appear in court. An adoption attorney will guide you through the proper forms, eliminate the chance for errors, and explain any post-placement obligations you’ll have to fulfill.

With over 58 years of combined legal experience, the attorneys at Goddard & Hammontree LLC have the expertise to guide you through the complexities of the adoption process. As neighbors helping neighbors, they pride themselves on serving the Dalton, GA, community, building a reputation for friendly service and commitment to their clients. To schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (706) 278-0464 today.