Laws regarding the legal act of adoption vary widely both internationally and from state to state. There are many intricacies involved with adopting a person under the age of 18. Permanently placing a minor in the custody of a person or persons other than their birth parents is a process that is heavily structured. This is not arbitrary, but rather adoption laws serve to protect all parties involved, especially the child.

If you are looking to adopt, you may want to consider private legal counsel to help you navigate all of the different legislation in addition to working with an adoption agency. Reunification with birth parents is usually the states' priority; since you as the adoptive parents are seeking to provide a home when reunification isn't possible, it's important for the wellbeing of your new family that all the legal steps have been taken to finalize your adoption. Separating family members is always difficult, and we work hard to help people avoid situations that cause further trauma for adopted children.