What Do You Need To Know Before Starting the Adoption Process?

Adopting a child is a life-changing decision that requires much thought and planning. If you’re considering adoption, it’s important to understand the decisions you’ll have to make before taking the big step. Here are some guidelines to help you navigate through this complex yet rewarding process.

Choose Between an Agency or Attorney

One of the first decisions you’ll have to make in your adoption journey is choosing between an agency or attorney. If you want to go the more traditional route, you can opt for an agency adoption, which will provide you with training and counseling to prepare you for the adoption process. In a private adoption, however, you’ll work with an attorney to seek out the birth family as opposed to waiting for an agency to find one for you. This allows for more flexibility and fewer requirements. If you’re interested in an agency adoption, you may want to arrange a legal consultation Oklahoma City OK to speak with a family lawyer.

Choose Between an Open or Closed Adoption

The type of adoption you choose will influence what kind of relationship you have with your child’s birth family. Open adoptions account for approximately 95 percent of modern adoptions, making them the more popular option. Maintaining a relationship with your child’s birth family can be beneficial for your child, as it can help them to feel more accepted by and connected with their birth family. However, a closed adoption can provide you with more safety, privacy and closure.

Prepare for Home Study

Regardless of whether you opt for an open or closed adoption, you’ll need to complete a home study. This process consists of evaluation and education, in which a case worker will determine if you’re suitable to adopt a child and prepare you for the process. Typically, home study takes three to six months to complete and may involve background checks, home visits and physical exams.

Although adopting a child can be a long and complicated process, it can also be extremely gratifying. Be sure to use these tips to help you along your journey.