Dealing with State Adoption Agencies
Adoption Attorney in Chester County, PA
Dealing with State Adoption Agencies
Nothing is more exciting than growing your family through adoption. But before the child is brought into your home, you will have to deal with the state adoption agency. Since the government runs the agency, you will have to deal with the slow process of bureaucracy and be prepared to be persistent.
No matter how you decide to adopt a child, you should do so with the guidance of an attorney. They can make sure that all the necessary steps are taken so you don’t have to wait longer than you already do.
Chester County, PA Adoption Attorney
Ciccarelli Law Offices understand that growing your family is important. That is why we want to be with you every step of the way to ensure the process goes as smooth as possible.
With the combined experience at Ciccarelli Law Offices, we know what it takes to have a successful adoption through a state agency. We will file all the necessary paperwork and represent you in court if necessary. Let Ciccarelli Law Offices walk you through this complicated process.
To schedule a free case consultation, call (610) 692-8700 or submit your information in the online contact form. We assist clients with state adoptions in areas thorough out the greater Philadelphia region including West Chester, Paoli, Parkesburg, Exton, Downingtown, Oxford, Malvern, Lancaster, Philadelphia, Kennett Square, Springfield, Malvern, King of Prussia, Radnor, Plymouth Meeting and many more.
Information Center
- Pros and Cons of State Adoption
- Private Adoption vs. Foster Adoption
- What are the Adoption Laws in Pennsylvania?
- Additional Resources
Pros and Cons of State Adoption
Every child deserves to have a permanent and loving home. If you are planning to adopt a child from a state agency, you should be aware of the pros and cons of doing so.
One of the most significant advantages to state agencies is the cost. Pennsylvania agencies will typically cover the cost of adopting a child. Even if the cost isn’t covered, it will still cost less than a private adoption agency. You might have to pay for agency fees that can include home studies and training, but this cost may be reimbursed after the child is placed in your home.
On the other hand, studies have shown that most foster children receive below average medical care or none at all. Because of this, they may require treatment for untreated medical conditions. The child could also need therapy to deal with the after effects of being in foster care. All of that said the child might be eligible to receive public health insurance.
When going through a state adoption agency, you might have to deal with the bureaucratic hassle. Social workers are bombarded with paperwork and other issues surrounding the adoption, so you may need to be persistent.
Private Adoption vs. Foster Adoption
State and private adoption agencies both accomplish the same thing. But there are immense differences between the two. Listed below are the differences between private and foster adoption.
Wait times: No matter how you decide to adopt, you will spend a lot of time waiting. Families that wish to adopt sooner typically choose a private agency. The average wait time for a private agency is one to 12 months, while a state agency can take one month to five years. The reason state agencies take long is that social services will try to rehabilitate the birth parent so they can be reunited with their child. Some older children, though, may be immediately ready for adoption through state agencies.
Involvement of Birth Parents: Families adopting through a state agency will usually have little to no interaction with the child’s birth parents, but this can vary from case to case. There is a greater chance of involvement in a private adoption. This is usually up to the birth mother’s discretion, but it’s common for a birth mother to be in contact with the adoptive parents after the adoption process.
Level of Uncertainty: No matter how you decide to adopt, there will always be a level of uncertainty. The success rate of a private adoption will vary based on the agency, but they typically have a moderate level of uncertainty. There is a high level of uncertainty involved when adopting through a state agency. This is because foster children have the chance of being reunited with their birth parents before the adoption is final.
Cost: As mentioned earlier, private adoptions are far more expensive than state adoptions. Private adoption can cost up to $50,000 while state adoptions usually cost very little. The reason private adoptions are so expensive is that there are numerous processes and services involved. One of the only things you will have to pay for in a state adoption is the home study.
What are the Adoption Laws in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania is one of the least restrictive states when it comes to adoption. Laws that govern adoption can be found in section 2101 to 2810 of the Pennsylvania Statutes.
The state does not prohibit any adult from adopting, and no law restricts who can be adopted. Birth parents are usually required to consent to the adoption, but there are circumstances where a child could be adopted without the parent’s consent. Consent is also required from the adoptee if they are older than 12.
Pennsylvania also requires all adoptive parents to complete a home study before the adoption is finalized. During this process you can expect a social worker to meet with you in your home and assess its safety and stability for adoption.
Additional Resources for Dealing with Adoption Agencies in Chester County, PA
Pennsylvania Statewide Adoption FAQ– Visit the Pennsylvania Statewide Adoption & Permanency Network to find answers to frequently asked questions. The form answers questions such as are there any restrictions, how long does it take to adopt and how you can learn more about adoption.
Adoption Hearings | Pennsylvania Statutes– Follow this link to read the statute that governs adoption hearings in the state. You can read about the general rule, the right to file personal and medical history information what to do it a putative father will not file a petition. The statue can be read on the Pennsylvania General Assembly website.
Adoption Lawyer in Chester County, PA
Growing your family is an exciting journey. One small mistake and the process can be delayed even longer. To ensure all the necessary steps are taken, you should go through the process with an experienced adoption attorney.
To schedule a free case consultation with Ciccarelli Law Office call (610) 692-8700 or submit your information in the online contact form. We represent clients in the greater Philadelphia area that includes Chester County, Lancaster County, Delaware County, Philadelphia County and Montgomery County.