Free Adoption FAQs | Free Adoption Legal FAQs

What Is Adoption?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

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 ruled by a court of law, the adoptive parents gain the same rights and responsibilities as parents whose children are born to them; subsequently, an adopted child gains the same rights as birth children in regard to inheritance, child support, and other legal matters. In most U.S. jurisdictions, at the time the adoption is fina

Are There Different Types Of Adoption?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

Adoptions takes place in various forms, and are generally classified as independent, agency, step parent, relative placement, and adult adoption. Independent adoption occurs when birth parents and adoptive families find each other on their own or through the help of an adoption intermediary, i.e. a pastor, family friend, or doctor. Agency adoptions are handled through a child placement agency, and in California, are licensed by the State Department of Social Services; approximately t

Who May Adopt?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

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 apply to become adoptive parents, although single and divorced individuals are not prohibited from adopting in California. There is no particular age, housing situation, social background, or income level that makes certain people more qualified than others to be adoptive parents, although some applicants may be required to prov

What Is The Process Of Adoption? How Is It Started?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

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(

How Does Custody Take Place?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

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 parent(s). The Court issues a custody order only after it finds that the statutorily required assessment, or home study, and reports on the child are satisfactory, and that there is compliance with all applicable laws. Some courts require both birth parents to appear at this hearing to testify that their consent to adoption was freel

What Happens During The Adoption Probationary Period?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

After the child has been placed with the adoptive family for probationary custody, the social worker or court representative continues their investigation by monitoring the placement for six months. During this period of supervision, the assessor will make visits to the adoptive home at least once every two months to observe the family. They will talk to the family and child monthly, and may also check with the child's doctor and school to determine their progression, and if they are

Do Prospective Adopters Need An Attorney?

Tue, 29 May 2007 20:19:00 GMT

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 adoption attorney. An adoption attorney is experienced in adoption laws and rules, and will not only facilitate a more efficient adoption, but will work to safeguard prospective parents from any loopholes or contingencies that could prevent the adoption from being finalized. If you are considering becoming an ado

Free Hague Adoption FAQs

Sun, 19 May 2013 11:09:51 GMT

Free Hague Adoption FAQs

Free Massachusetts Adoption FAQs

Sun, 19 May 2013 11:09:51 GMT

Free Massachusetts Adoption FAQs