The LGBT adoption process can seem like an impossible and mysterious maze to navigate to the average person. As someone considering adoption, it’s natural to want to know exactly how you can get from starting point to getting the forever family you want.
Just like other states, California has its own set of laws, rules, and qualifications for adoption. Although it doesn’t require you to have a prestigious job or be supremely wealthy, the state needs to determine that you’ll be able to provide a safe and loving home for your adoptive child.
Every adoption journey is different, but there is still a common thread linking them all together such as what you need to consider as a prospective parent and what you need to do to kick-start your adoption process in California.
If you’re considering adopting a child in the Golden State and wondering how the process works, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the rocky waters of adoption and find a child to give the permanent and nurturing home that they deserve.
- Decide on the type of adoption you want to pursue: Do you want to adopt a newborn or an older child? Would you prefer to adopt privately, through California’s foster care system or from a different state, or maybe even pursue an international adoption? You also need to check to see that you meet the minimum legal requirements for a California adoption.
- Choose an adoption agency and complete your application: There are multiple avenues, organizations, and professionals you can use when trying to adopt in California. It’s important that you pick one that’s right for you, as well as willing and equipped to provide adequate support for you before, during, and after your adoption is completed. You’ll also be required to fill out forms and submit the necessary documents, and complete a home study to qualify as an adoptive parent.
- Find an adoption opportunity and receive placement of the child: Once your application is completed, your caseworker or agent will get to work on finding a child that is right for you and your family situation. After all meetings, visits, and decisions have been made, the identified child will be placed in your home under supervision for six months before the adoption can be finalized.
Before you move forward with the California adoption process, it’s important to know what to expect so that you can be fully prepared to embark on your journey and successfully finalize it.
Final Words
As a hopeful adoptive parent, you’ll be glad to know that adopting a child in California is not as complicated as it seems.
You just need to have a little patience, pick a great agency to work with, and take it one step at a time. The process will be over before you know it.
Getting a child is the easier part, the real challenge is raising the child. Don’t hesitate to keep learning to better your parenting skills and ask for help from your agency should you need it.
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