If you re adopting a child born in another state, you must follow that state s requirements. Next you need to decide whether to go through an adoption agency or a private party , such as the birth parent. Usually, an agency has already obtained an order relinquishing or terminating the rights of the birth parents, which saves worrying over whether the birth parents will change their minds. On the other hand, being patient and going through a private adoption process may bring you a child who wouldn t be available through an agency. Several states don t permit private placements, so check that before investing time, energy, and money.
Private adoptions can be open or closed.
Open adoptions mean the birth parent keeps in touch with the child, through letters and photos or visits. A birth parent going through a private adoption is sometimes looking specifically for adoptive parents who ll support an open arrangement. Consider what age child you would like to adopt. There are many older, special-needs children waiting for loving homes right now, without any wait. If you re a stepparent adopting a stepchild, you face different considerations.