Consider the responses of other agencies. When fees are requested up front of a service, ask for information from the agency in writing related to the handling of the fees, i.e. trust accounts, payment plans, etc. However, the court may require specific reports to ensure that the adoption is in the best interest of the adoptee. After all required reports are filed, the court will schedule a hearing on the petition for adoption. If the court agrees with the petition, a Decree of Adoption will be entered, a revised birth certificate is issued, and the legal process is completed.
Adoption is a lifelong journey.
This information is offered as an introduction to adoptions in Washington State and a beginning step in the journey. It should not be considered the final source of information. Questions not answered here will require further research. Books and additional literature may also be available through your local library. Family recruitment is limited to families interested in children with special needs.