Filing for adoption is an admirable decision. There are many reasons when adoption may seem natural. When a woman remarries, her new husband may want to officially adopt the child, proving he bears all responsibility for future care. Other family members may opt for adoption in the event that the parents are no longer able to care for a child. Foster parents often choose to adopt a child after becoming extremely attached to one another. Regardless of the reasons behind an adoption, there are five things people should know before going ahead with the process.
Get Educated
Do your homework and find out all of the details about adopting a child. There are adoption agencies, community resources, and a host of organizations that can help you to be informed about the ins and outs. You don’t want any surprises when it comes to making such a major decision.
Learn the Legal Process
You want to know all of the laws that revolve around adoption. Make sure that you follow through every procedure and fulfill all legal requirements. The best way to cover all of your bases is to hire a good attorney, such as a family lawyer in Miami. A family lawyer focuses on matters concerning the family and will have the expertise you need for filing adoption. Generally, birth parents need to be identified, they need to surrender their legal rights as guardians, and the child will legally become a part of your family.
Think About Visitations
If you are adopting a child due to a second marriage, or you are a family member taking over as guardian, you need to think about visitations. Do you want the birth parent or parents to be allowed to visit the child? What limitations do you expect? Be sure to set the ground rules and have them officially documented.
Expect to Take Time
The process to adopt takes time. You are not going to be able to rush an adoption, nor should you want to. Everyone involved should be able to process the changes that are ahead.
What About Same-Sex Adoptions?
If you are a same-sex couple and you are considering adoption, you need to inquire about legalities in your state. Each state has different requirements. Some have limitations, while others treat a same-sex adoption the same as any other adoption.
Written by Rose M; Guest Blogger for Mom at Last
Five Things You Need to Know Before Filing For Adoption
