The adoptive parent or parents and the child usually visit before placement. When the child and family are ready, the child is officially placed with the adoptive parents. Generally, adoption staff will assist adoptive families during an adjustment period of three to six months following placement. This period is sometimes longer depending on the needs of the child and the family. When DSS and the adoptive family agree that the adoption should be made final, the family hires an attorney to file the adoption petition.
Financial assistance is available to help with the cost of adoption of a child with special needs.
Post Adoption Services Adoption is a lifelong process. After the adoption is final, DSS will provide counseling, referral services and other assistance upon request from the adoptive family.