Adopting A Child
Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri
Whether adopting a brand-new baby or an older child, Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC is here to help you. Adoption is a loving act and is a reason for celebration, but the process can be difficult to navigate on your own.
Any adult or married couple is eligible to adopt a child in the state of Missouri if they are in compliance with the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children. A home study will need to be completed and the adoptive parent/parents must go through the adoption approval process.
To adopt a child, both birth parents must consent to have their parental rights terminated or a court must terminate the rights of the parents. Children over the age of 14 must also consent to be adopted. If the child belongs to a Native American tribe or Alaskan Native village, the Indian Child Welfare Act may apply. If a pregnant mother puts her unborn child up for adoption, the adoptive parents are allowed to pay for pregnancy-related expenses, such a medical bills, living expense, etc.
The process of adopting a child depends on the specific circumstances of the child you are planning to adopt. Independent adoptions, stepparents adoptions, private agency adoptions, international adoptions and public agency or foster care adoptions all come with their own specific processes.
If you are adopting a child living in the United States, the following steps are required:
Finding the child - You must know what child you are looking to adopt or you may need assistance finding a child through an adoption agency or church. Prospective parents are allowed to advertise for a child in the state of Missouri.
Home study - A formal home study assessment is required to evaluate the home the child would potentially be living in. This process could take several weeks. Even in the case of a stepparent adoption, a home study is required.
Background Assessments - These are required for the child and both birth parents. These include assessments of their physical health, medical history and background. The information gathered will go to the adoptive parents, but confidentiality can be requested for identifying information by the birth parents.
Termination of parental rights - Birth parents can give their rights up voluntarily, but their rights might be taken by the court if they are found to be unfit. If birth parents are unmarried, efforts must be made to notify the father.
Receiving the child - The child is temporarily placed with adoptive parents for six months before the adoption can be finalized. There will be continued supervision by the agency who completed the home study. A guardian ad litem may be appointed to look after the child’s best interests during this process.
Finalizing the adoption - Once the six month period is over, the adoptive parents must appear for a court hearing. Once the judge grants the adoption, the adoptive parents have the same rights as any birth parent would have.
If you are starting the process of adopting a child, reach out to Daniel Finder at Finder Law. He is an experienced family law attorney with over 10 years of experience. You’ll receive personalized legal advice from someone who is familiar with this often complex process.
This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.
