By THERESA DAVIS
What can you expect when you’re adopting? Lots. So I’m going to talk you through it.
The first thing you need to do is make the decision to adopt. This is equally if not more important than deciding it’s time to start having biological children.
If you decide to adopt from an agency, you will need to retain an adoption lawyer. They help navigate the adoption process and make sure the adoption is legal. They also help with the adoption agreement between the birth parents and the adoptive parents, especially if you would like an open adoption. (An open adoption is when the adoptive parents allow visits with the birth family.)
If you want to adopt overseas, there are lawyers who specialize in overseas adoptions. Research carefully from which country you would like to adopt, you will need to spend considerable time and money travelling back and forth. In some instances, you may need to spend a week or more in the country of your choice.
If you decide to adopt from the foster care system, keep in mind the goal of foster care is reunification with the birth parents. You are provided child protective workers to help you with the process from welcoming your foster child to saying goodbye and preparing the child for going home. You may be provided a lawyer for the child as well.
It takes time and effort, but adoption is a great way to start or expand your family. Whichever adoption option you choose, make sure it’s the best choice for you.
Consider researching these helpful adoption resources:
