Growing your family by adopting a child is a life-changing experience for everyone involved. To ensure adoptive parents are prepared for their new responsibilities, Connecticut family law requires completing several steps before the judge signs the adoption decree. Whether you have children or are planning for first-time parenthood, here’s what to know about the adoption process.

What Steps Are Needed for Adoption Under Connecticut Family Law?

1. Home Study

A social worker visits adoptive parents at their home and then prepares a detailed report. This home study report includes descriptions of your home and neighborhood, everyone in the household, and occupations and finances of the prospective parents. Other details include the reasons for adopting, an assessment of your emotional readiness to adopt, and your approach to parenting and discipline.

2. Criminal Records Check & References

You need at least three people to attest to your good character. In addition, you must submit to a background check, including giving your fingerprints for comparison to local, state, and federal records.

Having a criminal conviction does not prevent you from adopting a child, but you may have to explain the surrounding circumstances. These results become part of the home study report.

3. Medical Examination

As an adoptive parent, your health should not pose a hazard to the children. Connecticut family law requires each parent to undergo a medical examination.

Your physical, mental, and emotional health are considered, including whether you have overcome grief stemming from infertility, miscarriages, or the death of a child. It is in your best interest to answer questions from doctors and social workers fully and honestly. 

If you plan to adopt children, seek counsel from one of the experienced family law attorneys at Traystman & Coric LLC in New London, CT. Drawing on more than 100 years of combined legal experience, these skilled and compassionate attorneys serve prospective parents throughout New London County. In addition to adoptions, the firm’s attorneys focus on child support, divorce mediation, and litigation. Visit their website to learn more about their services, or call (860) 442-8758 to schedule a consultation.