The Journey to Adoption

Getting Started - Where to Begin?

The best place to begin the adoption process is with Information! Learn all you can. Adding a child to your family is a huge decision. Join adoption support groups. Talk to others who have adopted. Read books and check out web sites, like adoption at about.com and the links and articles offered here. Call agencies and request their literature. Ask questions! Carry around a note pad so if questions come to mind you can jot them down at any time.
Decide if you are going Domestic or International.
Select the agency or attorney you will be working with.
Begin the paperwork the agency asks you to complete and start any classes that are required.
From here the steps vary depending on the state and/or agency you have chosen and whether or not you are going international.
Matched with child.
Read child’s file and ask any questions you may have on the child’s background.
Prepare for the arrival of your child.
File the petition to adopt.
Finalize adoption in court.
Post-adoption services.

With International adoptions there will be other paperwork to file and to gather. See our International subject page for more information or ask the representatives at the agency you have chosen to work with.
I wish you all the best of luck in your adoption journey. Remember to take good care of yourselves as this can be a stressful time in your lives.