When parents’ rights are terminated by the court, children in foster care become eligible for adoption. In 2017 alone, 69,000 kids in the system were waiting for permanent placement. If you foster a child, making them a legal family member ensures they’ll have the stability necessary to thrive. If you’re considering this option to grow your family, below is an introduction to the process.  

A Guide to Foster Care Adoption

Benefits of Adopting Through Foster Care

Raising a child is expensive, and adopting through foster care can offset some of the costs. Foster children can keep their state-funded insurance until the age of 18, ensuring they have access to medical care when needed. Legal guardians of kids adopted through the system could also be eligible to receive monthly financial assistance to help with expenses. Some states also pay for their college tuition, too.  

How the Process Works

Guidelines vary, so contact your state’s Department of Children’s Services for details. If you already foster a child, for example, you might be automatically approved to adopt them in some states. Placing kids with their current foster parents is ideal, as they’ve already begun to develop a bond. Before the process is finalized, a thorough background check is performed. Guardians must also complete parent training to help kids with the emotional transition and a home study process to learn parenting skills. A written home study file is compiled, which includes medical reports, financial statements, and additional information about the family. If you want to adopt without fostering first, you must complete a home study to start. 

Why You Should Enlist a Lawyer

Navigating the process can be confusing, which is why you should hire an attorney to help. They are familiar with adoption and child custody laws in your state. They will answer questions, help fill out paperwork, and make sure you fulfill all the necessary requirements. They can also draw up legal documents that cover how to handle any future concerns regarding the child’s upbringing.

If you want to adopt a foster child in Tennessee, the family attorneys at Brentwood-based Castles Family Law are qualified to help. They know the ins and outs of state laws and will make the adoption process a stress-free experience for your household in Davidson, Williamson, or Rutherford counties. To schedule a consultation, call (615) 804-6086. Learn more about the staff’s qualifications online.