What is a Public Adoption?

A public adoption refers to any adoption that is arranged through a publicly funded ministry or agency.

The Process of Adopting a Child

When you adopt a child through a public agency they have more control over the procedure than a private adoption agency does. A public agencies primary focus is on safety and the well being of the child up for adoption.

With public adoptions, the process will vary somewhat from agency to agency. However, there are basic requirements that you will need to have no matter where you go.

• attend orientation classes
• complete medical reports and police checks
• complete social and family histories
• attend adoption classes
• provide references
• a social worker is assigned and will complete a home study

Once all the requirements are met, a child will be placed in your home. There is then a probationary period at which time the social worker makes follow-up visits. After the probationary period is up, you will be required to present a post-placement study to whoever is in charge of the adoption. And finally you will obtain an adoption decree from the court.

How Long Can it Take?

It depends, the home study and orientation and adoption classes that are required may last up to nearly a year. After that it will depend on the child you are interested in, their age, siblings, a child of a different race, or special needs. In any of these cases you could possibly have them almost immediately.

However, if it is a newborn you desire, you can expect to wait much longer. Even several years.

Advantages

There are normally no costs involved. Any costs to adopt a child from the public system – the home study, court costs, attorneys’ fees and training are all covered by the state.

If you are eager to adopt and ready to receive the responsibilities of raising a child with a particular need, the waiting will be very brief. The entire process from the orientation, training, home study and background checks to getting matched with a child can be accomplished in about nine months.

There will also be less danger regarding a birthmother changing her mind. These are children who have come into the care of the state because their parents where not able to properly care for them, perhaps neglecting them or subjecting them to abuse.

Disadvantages

As the adoptive parent you will have fewer choices. The agencies main focus is on meeting the needs of the child rather than satisfying your wants and desires.

It is very difficult to get a newborn because so few birthmothers have their babies placed in a public adoption agency. The private system is often easier to deal with and more responsive to their needs.

For all intents and purposes, do not take on more than you can handle, seek help when you need it and establish a proper support system. And most importantly, do not let your emotions cloud your judgments. Just because there are no fees involved and the waiting period is shorter, you will be bringing a child into your home who will no doubt have an affect on your lifestyle and relationships.

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