The idea of bringing a new member of the family into the household may be exciting. However, the process may take time as measures are put in place to ensure that you adopt your child in a legal way. Adopting a child is a sensitive matter, and therefore the time of adoption may extend to a year for child safety.

Steps to Adopting A Child

Decide on the Age and the Gender of the Child

Even before you go to the adoption agency, have a clear picture in mind of the age and the gender of the child you want. Each age group has separate requirements for adoption. For instance, if you are adopting a newborn, you will have to decide if you will keep in touch with the birth mother or not.

Have an Estimate of the Cost of Adopting

The adoption cost will differ from one adoption to the other depending on the type of adoption you opt for. You can consult a professional for advice on what to expect. Here are some of the things to consider:

  • Find out the amount you will pay an attorney.
  • The cost of finding the birth mother
  • The standard of your house, whether you need to buy more items in the house
  • Ask an adoption professional about other expenses you might incur during the process.

Get in Touch with Professionals

The next important thing is to have a professional walk you through the legal adoption process. Some people may skip this process. However, it’s crucial to have an attorney who knows their job well, such as Hassett & George. The purpose of the attorney is to ensure that you don’t overlook important details. They can easily tell what you need and speed up finding the child’s biological parents. In the case of pregnant mothers who opt to put their children for adoption, the lawyer will help you understand some legal proceedings during the pregnancy and after birth. The attorney will help you with the necessary information needed when you choose to keep in touch with the birth parents or if you choose to eliminate contact with the parents.

Home Study

A home study will help you know the standard requirements of your house for an agency to allow you to adopt a child. If you have other kids, you will have to create room for one more. If it’s your first time, you will have to change your home to accommodate a child. Have a list of the necessary changes you are likely to make at home. Licensed home study personnel in your locality will help you through the process.

Getting in Touch With the Birth Mother

If you are adopting a newborn, you will have to contact the birth mother. Most of them want to choose the person they give their child to. Remember that you might not be the only one offering to adopt the child. In most cases, the birth mother chooses the adoptive parents instinctively. If you want a toddler or an older child, you will need to look at the number of children on the waiting list.

Prepare for a New Member of Your Family

Whether you are adopting a newborn or an older child, you will have to inform the family about it. Create a safe space for your child-to-be.

Finalizing the Process

The process is completed for a newborn when the mother gives birth and willingly gives the baby. The biological mother has the right to change their mind about giving their child away. It is usually advisable not to host baby showers and such activities before the mother hands you the baby. For an older child, the final stage means you are going home with your child. After taking your child home, there are numerous visits you will receive from children’s services to ensure that the child feels safe.

Despite the challenging process, adopting a child opens a gateway to parenthood to many and opens homes to children. You need a good attorney to help you with the legal process.