Adopting a child is one of the most rewarding actions a family or individual can take. An adoptive relationship is reciprocal, in that a parent gives a child the parental figure they need, while a child provides a parent with an experience unlike any other. However, while you are most likely to get started as soon as you can, there are several things you should know about the adoption process fist.
Adoption is a very document-heavy process, and the courts may require several things of you before allowing the adoption to take place. For example, you may be subject to background checks, in-home visits, interviews, training courses, and more. Additionally, there are several different types of adoption of which you will have to choose from. They are as follows:
- Domestic Adoption: This is when a family who lives in the United States adopts a child who was born, and lives, in the United States as well. In today’s day and age, open domestic adoptions are increasingly popular, as an open adoption allows a child’s biological parents to remain a part of their life, as well as in contact with the child’s adoptive parents. This collaborative approach is very often best for adopted children’s development.
- Private Adoption: This form of adoption is for those who already know the child they wish to adopt, or are adopting the child through his or her biological parents. This type of adoption generally circumvents adoption agencies.
- International Adoption: International adoptions are extremely rewarding, though they generally do not transpire without a bit of additional effort on your part. Oftentimes, international adoptions require multiple trips to and from your adoptive child’s home country.
- LGBT Adoption: Though LGBT adoption is not legal in all states, fortunately, it is legal in New York.
- Second-Parent Adoption: When a same-sex parent adopts his or her biological or adoptive child, it is known as second-parent adoption. This type of adoption allows the first parent’s legal status as a parent to stay the same.
- Step-Parent Adoption: This is for stepparents who are seeking to adopt their stepchildren. However, to successfully adopt your stepchild, you either need full consent from the child’s non-custodial parent, or the court will have to terminate the biological parent’s parental rights. This will only happen if there is evidence of child abuse or neglect.
- Adult Adoption: This form of adoption exists between two or more adults, and its main function is to transfer inheritance rights or filiation.
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