Getting Ready to Adopt

Choose the type of adoption that fits you best

When it comes to adoption, "one size does NOT fit all!"

Select an agency or attorney

Selecting the right agency or attorney may be the single most important decision you make in the adoption process. Ask for testimonials from past clients, check licensure/accreditation status, ask about how long they have practiced in adoption, "get a gut feeling."

Complete a Home Study

All adoptions require a screening of applicants to determine their ability to parent. While often initially a source of trepidation, the process can be a great opportunity to receive additional education and support in preparation for parenting. To assist with the assessment, several sources of documentation may be required. Common factors include: fingerprint checks with the FBI, child abuse and neglect background screenings, physician statements regarding physical and mental health, marital history, reference, employment verification, income stability and physical standards of the home.

Receive a child into your family

Depending on the type of adoption that suits you best, the time from home study to placement varies greatly. Around the time of placement, the legal rights of the birth parents are often legally terminated by the court and are most often irrevocable. Once a child is placed into your home, a period of Post-Placement Supervision is generally required, often for six months. During this time, you will receive ongoing support from the agency.

Finalize the Adoption

After the required period of supervision, you will return to court to finalize the adoption. The agency will provide a recommendation for approval. The judge will finalize the adoption by awarding the adoptive parents all legal rights and responsibilities as if the child had been born to them. This final step varies with international adoptions, which are often finalized in the country of origin.

For more information, please contact us at adoption@chsmo.org or 314.968.2350 x240