The Adoption Process - The Parents

Adoptive Parents Think about fostering or adopting and discuss with family, friends, explore ways to get information
Contact agency, Get materials from agency
Have family consultation Agency and prospective parent agree about continuing process
Complete application
Attend NOVA classes
Decide want to adopt
Attend Making the Commitment to Adoption classes
Decide type of child want to adopt
Participate in completion of family assessment/homestudy
Receive foster home license and/or information from agency about certification for adoption
Discuss possible child(ren) for placement with adoption staff
Gain as much information as available about children(ren), seeking expert input if needed
Start pre-placement visits
Parents and agency worker plan placement
Sign placement agreement and information disclosure form
Child(ren) move(s) into home
Work with agency worker after placement (post placement period) in adjusting to the new family situation, for help in meeting the child's needs, getting needed resources, and planning for the time when the worker will no longer be involved.
Discuss adoption assistance with worker
Complete Adoption Assistance Application Agree with worker on finalization of adoption
Contact lawyer to file adoption petition in County/Juvenile court
Cooperate with attorney in signing appropriate forms for adoption finalization
Finalize adoption in circuit court after child is in home at least six months
Get new birth certificate(s) for child(ren) and final decree from lawyer
Check with agency about starting adoption assistance
Seek services for child and family after adoption is finalized as needed
Complete Adoption Assistance Application annually, if required