Article brought to us by: Your Law Firm website
Here’s everything potential new parents need to think about before starting the adoption process
Key Points:
- Expert explains everything prospective parents need to do before starting the adoption process
- The importance of getting finances in order, creating a welcoming home, establishing a support network, fully understanding the legal process, and more
- Expert discusses the importance of getting things organized and ensuring you are in the right position to adopt
Adopting a child is one of the most life-changing decisions you can make, and like any major milestone in life, preparation is key. Whether you’re adopting domestically or internationally, through foster care or private means, being well-prepared can make the transition smoother for both you and your child.
Before diving headfirst into the adoption process, it’s important to first understand the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of adoption. To help you on this path, Kira Abernathy, the lead attorney at Your Law Firm, a firm dedicated to providing people-first legal services, has broken down the most important steps to consider as you prepare for your journey to parenthood.
1. Get Your Finances In Order
In addition to requiring emotional readiness, adoption also requires financial stability. The cost of adoption varies widely depending on the type you pursue:
- Domestic Adoption: $20,000 – $45,000
- International Adoption: $30,000 – $50,000
- Foster Care Adoption: Little to no cost
“Beyond the initial adoption costs, consider long-term financial planning for your child’s upbringing, including healthcare, education, and daily expenses,” says Kira. “Look into employer benefits, grants, tax credits, and adoption loans that may ease the financial burden.” Additionally, budgeting for initial expenses like baby essentials, home adjustments, and travel (if applicable) is critical.
Review your financial stability, credit score, and potential additional income sources. Consulting a financial advisor can help you prepare for both expected and unexpected costs.
2. Create A Safe And Supportive Home Environment
Here are a few things to consider before you start:
- Do you have a dedicated space for your child to sleep and play?
- Is your home childproofed and safe for different age groups?
- Are there local parks, schools, and child-friendly resources nearby?
- If adopting internationally, are you prepared for language or cultural differences?
Most adoptions require a home study, which includes interviews, background checks, and home visits to make sure you meet safety and stability standards. Having your home in order ahead of time will make this process smoother.
This is also a good time to discuss the division of responsibilities in your household with family members, making sure you all agree on your roles in welcoming and supporting the new child.
3. Prepare Yourself Mentally And Emotionally
Adoption is a beautiful journey, but it can also be an emotional rollercoaster. Be honest with yourself about:
- Your motivation for adopting
- Your comfort level with an open vs. closed adoption
- Potential challenges, such as attachment difficulties or trauma-related behaviors
- The patience and resilience required for parenting
Seeking counseling, joining an adoption support group, or connecting with other adoptive families can help you navigate this journey with confidence. It’s also important to have open and honest discussions with your partner or family members about expectations, concerns, and parenting approaches.
“Make sure you are emotionally prepared, as the adoption process can sometimes involve long waiting periods, legal complexities, and post-adoption adjustments, not to mention disappointments if things fall through,” says Kira.
4. Do Your Homework: Research The Legal And Logistical Aspects
The legalities of adoption can be complex, so arm yourself with knowledge about:
- State And Federal Regulations: Adoption laws vary widely by state, so read up on what your state requires.
- Birth And Adoptive Parents’ Rights: This involves understanding the legal process of parental rights termination.
- Court Involvement: Research the role of a family court in finalizing adoption, including when and how often you’ll have to appear.
- The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC): This is a key document to study if you’re adopting across state lines.
- USCIS Regulations: This is required reading if you’re adopting internationally.
“An experienced adoption attorney or agency can help you meet and understand all the legal requirements,” says Kira. Additionally, familiarize yourself with post-adoption services, including medical care, legal re-adoption processes (if applicable), and educational resources to help ease the transition.
5. Research The Right Adoption Path For You
There are multiple ways to adopt, and understanding them is crucial:
- Domestic Infant Adoption: This typically involves working with an agency or attorney to adopt a newborn.
- Foster Care Adoption: This type of adoption is where you provide a home for children in the foster system, often at little to no cost.
- International Adoption: This can be more complicated as it requires compliance with both the U.S. and the child’s home country’s adoption laws.
- Open vs. Closed Adoption: In open adoptions, birth parents and adoptive families maintain some level of contact. Closed adoptions are the opposite.
Each option has unique requirements, timelines, and costs, so research thoroughly before deciding. Consider speaking with families who have gone through different adoption paths to gain firsthand insight into what may work best for you.
6. Consider The Child’s Needs And Background
Before adopting, gather as much information as possible about the child’s background, including:
- Medical history and any potential health concerns
- Emotional and behavioral history
- Cultural and ethnic background (if adopting transracially, be prepared to honor and embrace their heritage)
- Previous living situations (foster care, orphanage, etc.)
“If adopting internationally or taking in an older child, you may need additional medical screenings, therapy, or educational support,” says Kira. “Be ready for possible developmental delays, attachment challenges, or special needs that may require long-term care.”
7. Understand The Transition Period
Bringing a child home is just the beginning. Many children, especially those from foster care or international orphanages, need time to adjust. Common challenges include:
- Attachment issues
- Sleeping and eating difficulties
- Behavioral adjustments
Maintaining consistency, showing patience, and seeking professional support can help ease this transition. Establishing a structured routine, building trust, encouraging open communication, and creating a sense of security will support your child’s adjustment to their new environment.
8. Build Your Support System
People often say raising a child requires a village, and that’s no different with adopted kids. Lean on:
- Family and friends
- Adoption support groups
- Pediatricians familiar with adoption-related medical concerns
- Therapists specializing in adoption and trauma
“Many post-adoption services, including counseling and support networks, are available to help families adjust and thrive,” says Kira. “Seeking guidance from experienced adoptive parents can also be invaluable as you navigate the challenges and joys of raising an adopted child.”
Kira Abernathy, the lead attorney at Your Law Firm, commented:
“Adoption is an incredible thing to do, but as with any major life decision, you need to be prepared. Getting organized is about more than just paperwork and checklists; it means making sure you’re emotionally, financially, and logistically ready to welcome a child into your life.
“A stable home, a strong support system, and a realistic understanding of the challenges ahead can make all the difference. I always tell prospective parents: think beyond the moment you bring your child home. Are you ready for sleepless nights, school runs, and answering big, sometimes tough, questions? Do you have a network of friends, family, or professionals who can offer guidance when things get tough?
“Every adoption journey is unique, and while you can’t plan for every twist and turn, being as prepared as possible means stepping into parenthood with confidence. When you take the time to get things in order, you’re setting yourself and your child up for a smoother transition into this new chapter together.”
About Your Law FirmYour Law Firm, established in 2014 by Attorney Kira Lin Abernathy, is dedicated to providing people-first legal services. Originally known as Attorney KLA, the firm rebranded in 2023 to better reflect its commitment to client-centered representation. Specializing in criminal defense, family law, and traffic-related cases, Your Law Firm strives to empower clients by offering tailored legal assistance that addresses their unique needs and goals. The team, led by Attorney Abernathy, emphasizes creating positive outcomes and ensuring clients feel supported throughout the legal process. With plans to expand both its team and areas of practice, Your Law Firm remains steadfast in its mission to serve clients with dedication and integrity.
Article brought to us by: Your Law Firm website
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