Adopting a child is one of the most transformative journeys that you can experience in life. It does not matter whether you are pursuing it on your own or with your spouse, the only key factor to consider is your readiness to welcome a child into your loving home.
In this blog, we will discuss how you can legally adopt in the state:
Who can adopt in New York State?
To be eligible for application, you must be at least 18 years old or older, have no felony convictions and be able to showcase your physical and mental capabilities to care for a child permanently.
Keep in mind that only a family court or surrogate’s court judge can be authorized to approve New York State adoptions. Your adoption becomes final once a judge signs an “order of adoption”.
What happens during the adoption process?
To help protect the welfare of adoptive babies and children, the state enforces a thorough application and legal process for all potential adoptive parents. The timeline for adoption may take nine months or longer, depending on the circumstances.
Here are eight steps you need to take after choosing an adoption agency and submitting your application:
- Complete the homestudy process
- Attend an agency-sponsored training
- Collaborate with a caseworker who will help you find a match
- Attend your scheduled visits with the child
- Welcome the child into your home
- Complete at least three months of supervision
- File your adoption petition with a family law attorney
- Finalize your child’s adoption in court
No matter which type of adoption you choose, you must go through the same timeline as everybody else and display commitment for the entire process. By doing so, you can help prepare yourself and your family for the arrival of your new child.