Legal Hoops

Those of us who have adopted know there are a lot of legal hoops and paperwork when it comes to getting your adoption finalized.  Those of you who are in the process of adopting you are learning this painful reality.  Although there are a lot of legal hoops and hoopla, the reward is great.

We received a simplified chart of the Legal Aspects of Adoption from Adoption Affiliates when we adopted our boys.  I want to share this chart with you because it helps to clear up some of the fuzzy areas.  Please keep in mind this chart is based on our adoptions which took place in Texas.  The waiting periods and legal requirements may differ in your state.  I still wanted to share.  You may right click on this image to print or save.

I also found another helpful resource Adoption General Information Packet 1 posted on Child Welfare Information Gateway.  This packet was published in 2004 by the National Adoption Information Clearinghouse and is a collection of factsheets addressing the steps involved in agency and independent adoptions, the homestudy process, and the legal aspects of adoption.

To download the packet in pdf format click here.

I hope you find these illustrations, factsheets and sites useful and informative.