When considering adoption, the process may seem daunting at first, particularly because there are many different paths to adoption and no two adoption cases are the same. Below is an overview of the typical steps that make up the domestic adoption process in California (this post covers domestic adoption only and does not include information on international adoptions). Each case is unique, and these steps may occur in a different order depending on the circumstances. As always, if you have a specific question about your particular case, the best course of action is to discuss it with a qualified adoption attorney.
Choosing the Type of Adoption
The first step is choosing the type of adoption to pursue. See our post on the different types of adoption here.
Selecting an Agency or Facilitator
In order to select an agency or facilitator that is the right fit, many families start by attending information sessions of the organization(s) they are considering. You can contact the organization for information on its particular sessions. You can also check the agency/facilitators’ licensing and ask for references from other families that have successfully completed adoptions through that particular organization. In addition, it is also possible to match through an attorney in California so we recommend contacting an adoption attorney early in the process.
Completing the Home Study
If you are adopting through the foster care system, you must complete an adoption family assessment before a child or children can be placed in your home. For independent adoption, the home study can be completed before or after placement.
The home study must be performed by a licensed adoption agency, and in many cases, will be conducted by the California Department of Social Services (or the delegated county adoption agency). During the home study, a social worker will evaluate the prospective adoptive parents and their home. The home study process in California includes interviews with the social worker, a physical inspection of the home, written questionnaires, employment verifications, health verifications, a financial review, reference checks, fingerprinting, and a criminal background check.
Placement
If you are working with a public agency, once your home study is completed, a social worker will contact you with information on a child or children in the foster care system that they think would be a good fit for your home. If you are pursuing adoption through a private agency or facilitator, typically the birth parents will choose the family for the child and you will be contacted once your family is chosen. Wait times can vary widely depending on a number of circumstances.
Legal Finalization
All adoptions must be approved and finalized in court. The timing of the finalization can vary depending on the circumstances of each case and the case load of the particular court. In independent adoptions in California, the finalization usually takes place within one year after placement. Once the adoption is finalized, the court declares the adoptive parents to be the permanent legal parents of the child.