If you want to grow your family through adoption, you may wonder how to navigate the proceedings. While it’s true that finalizing the arrangement is challenging, an attorney can help throughout the process. To help you get started, below are answers to a few of the most frequently asked questions about adoption law in Missouri.

A Guide to Adoptions in Missouri

Who must consent to the adoption?

If you are adopting a newborn, the child's mother must consent to the adoption. The presumed father must also consent, but only if he took steps to establish paternity within 15 days of the child's birth or filed with the putative father registry. If you’re adopting an older child, neither the mother nor the father must consent, as long as the state already terminated their parental rights. However, if the child is over 14 and is mentally competent, they must agree to the arrangement.

Can birth parents revoke their consent?

When birth parents consent to adoption, the court has three days to approve the arrangement or set up a hearing. Birth parents may withdraw their consent up until the court accepts the agreement and finalizes the adoption. Should this happen, the children will automatically return to the birth parents.

What happens during a home study?

All prospective parents must complete a home study before they can foster or adopt. This is a comprehensive pre-placement evaluation, and it aims to confirm their ability to provide a stable home for children. During the home study, an adoption agent will interview every member of the household, inspect the residence thoroughly, and review each parent’s education, work history, and medical history. The home study will also include a financial analysis and a criminal background check. 

Do all prospective parents have to complete a home study?

If the prospective parent happens to be the child's stepparent, aunt, uncle, or another relative, a pre-placement evaluation is not necessary. However, the court will still require a criminal background check to finalize the arrangement.

When you want to pursue adoption, turn to Rathjen-Decker Law, LLC, in St. Louis, MO. This adoption law firm is proud to help parents grow their families. For more than a decade, their knowledgeable team has been counseling clients in family law matters, including divorce, custody, and child support. To request a consultation, call (314) 727-6933. Visit the website to learn more about their practice.