Making the decision to adopt can be an exciting time for potential parents. Those who have recently divorced and want to start a family of their own may worry that they will be dissuaded by well-intentioned friends, family, and adoption agencies. While some agencies may not allow a single parent to adopt if they’ve had multiple divorces in the past, in most cases it won’t be an issue and the focus will be on how well you can support the child. This post will discuss more about the adoption process and how the experience may be for single parents.
The Process of Adoption
An adoptive parent is a person who wants to provide a permanent home to one or more children that are not theirs biologically. The end result is no different than if they had a child of their own, as they will be responsible for ensuring their needs are met. Adoptive parents will still feel all the highs and lows of parenting including joy, laughter, frustration, uncertainty, and more.
The adoption process can occur in several ways. You may get connected with a birth mother and have arranged for an adoption as soon as the baby is born. Or, maybe you want to adopt out of the country from an impoverished area or work with an agency near you to match with a child in need. You could also foster a child or children and see if you are the right fit for each other.
Taking The Steps
It is helpful to hire a lawyer, like a family lawyer who is knowledgeable in the legal aspects of adoption so that you have a professional to answer questions and ensure that your best interests are protected. After filing to adopt, it isn’t uncommon for an agency to hire a social worker to perform an in-home evaluation. This worker wants to confirm that your home is safe and a comfortable place to raise a child. An adoption agency may also necessitate that you agree to a background check and get the all clear from your doctor that you aren’t suffering from a condition that could impair your ability to properly care for the child.
As your attorney may tell you, these tests and precautions are not to prevent you from adopting, it’s just that the agency wants to see that the child has the best life possible. However, if for any reason your attorney feels that an adoption agency is violating your rights as you pursue adoption, he or she can speak up on your behalf.
Responsibilities and Inheritance Rights
Once the adoption is finalized, you will be responsible for that child emotionally, physically, financially, spiritually, and legally. This means that the child or children you adopt will have the same rights to inheritance as if you gave birth to them. You will have the responsibility to make decisions for their life and well being, including medical care, education, and religion. Your attorney can assist you as you attend court, fulfill adoption agency requirements, and complete the paperwork to solidify the adoption.