Adopting an infant in Georgia requires planning and preparation.
Couples choose to adopt a child for a variety of reasons, including infertility, the desire to add to an existing family, same-sex partnerships or the desire to give a child a good home. Whatever your reason for adopting, it is a lengthy process fraught with hurdles. Adoption laws and requirements vary from state to state. If you are a resident of Georgia, there are several steps you can take to make your dreams of adoption come true.
Instructions
1. Choose an adoption agency. Check into nonprofit and for-profit agencies, governmental adoption options through the Georgia Department of Human Services, private adoption attorneys and religious organizations. Ask the agency about contact its licensing authority and then call to verify that the agency is in good standing and legally able to place children for adoption.
2. Contact the agency and ask begin the adoption process. A written application divulging your personal and financial details is usually the first step to adoption. Indicate in the paperwork that you are interested in adopting an infant.
3. Follow through with all appointments, background checks, personal interviews and home evaluations. Make yourself available and divulge all required information in an honest manner. Some requirements of the state of Georgia include physical examinations, drug tests and reference and criminal checks.
4. Complete all training and orientation courses. The state of Georgia requires a two-hour orientation and 20 hours of pre-service training known as the IMPACT program.
5. Ensure that you are financially able to pay any fees involved with adopting a child. You can obtain this figure from the adoption agency.
6. Participate in parent support groups. You can obtain information on these groups from the Georgia Center for Resources and Support by calling 866-272-7368.
7. Complete all adoption paperwork and fulfill the legal requirements necessary to finalize the adoption.
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