What Is The Process Of Adoption? How Is It Started?
All prospective persons wishing to adopt must first participate in a full investigation, which includes an assessment completed by a juvenile court officer, or a licensed social worker. This investigation determines whether the child is suitable for adoption by the adopter and whether the adopter(s) is suitable for the child. This assessment and investigation is known as the home study, and usually last six to eight weeks. During this time, interviews of the prospective parent(s) are conducted, and a home visit with all family members is completed. Information on each member of the household is investigated, including: medical and criminal background, child abuse history, documentation of income and financial resources, family structure within the home (other children, etc.), religious, educational, and physical and mental health history of all household members, and parenting background of the applicant(s) and their reasons for adoption. This information is then summarized, and forms the basis of the assessor's impressions and recommendations to a court of law.
Other Adoption FAQs
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Q:
What Is Adoption?
A: Adoption is the legal process by which a person becomes a lawful member of a family different from their birth family. Once a final order of adoption has been …
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Are There Different Types Of Adoption?
A: Adoptions takes place in various forms, and are generally classified as independent, agency, step parent, relative placement, and adult adoption. Independent …
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Who May Adopt?
A: Any adult living in California may file a petition to adopt a child who is at least ten years younger than the petitioner. Married couples are most likely to …
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Q:
How Does Custody Take Place?
A: The adoptive family does not assume physical custody of the child until a court of law issues an order transferring probationary custody to the adoptive …
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Q:
What Happens During The Adoption Probationary Period?
A: After the child has been placed with the adoptive family for probationary custody, the social worker or court representative continues their investigation by …
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Q:
Do Prospective Adopters Need An Attorney?
A: As adoption is a legal action, and the results are a lifelong commitment, prospective adopters are encouraged, and often court ordered, to work closely with an …
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