You will sign a contract for
services. Be certain that you understand fees, payment schedule, reimbursement
schedule if adoption does not occur, etc.
The next step is the adoption home study. We
will discuss the home study more extensively in the next chapter.
The process of finding a child may
be different, depending on the type of adoption professional you are working through.
For example, adoption facilitators and adoption agencies should have systems in place that
attract parents who are considering placing their child for adoption. Attorneys
may expect you to have identified a pregnant woman who would like you to adopt
her child or a family willing to place an older child for adoption.
If you need to search for a child
to adopt, here are some ways that people have found successful.
Many singles and couples advertise
in local newspapers, explaining that they want to adopt and providing contact
information.
You can and should write to family
planning agencies, obstetricians, pediatricians and anyone else who might lead
you to a child. The letter should include biographical information about you
and your partner, discuss why you want to become parents and talk about your
lifestyle and values. Include several photos of you, your home, and your yard.
