California baby adoptions are made possible through a variety of organizations.
Adopting a baby within the state of California can be a long process. Each prospective parent is required by state and federal law to endure a personal investigation. These practices help to ensure the well fare of children who are placed into the adoption system. A variety of adoption practices are available to those wishing to welcome a child into a home. Choosing the right option for you is the first step to a successful adoption process.
California Department of Social Services (CDSS)
The CDSS assists families who are looking to adopt a baby, as well as those who are looking to give one up for adoption. CDSS offices are located throughout the state, and they require a screening and application process before an individual is given a caseworker. Caseworkers guide the accepted individuals through the adoption process.
Birth Parent Rights
Within the state of California, birth parents have several options available to them. For adoptions through adoption agencies or through the CDSS, parents can choose whether they would like an open or closed adoption. Open adoptions are those in which the birth parents are allowed to have contact with the adoptive parents. Closed adoptions are those in which the birth parents waive all rights to any information concerning the whereabouts of the baby.
Adoption Agencies
Within the State of California, adoption agencies can be private and public. Private agencies are not required to obtain a license from the State of California, so fees will vary from agency to agency. Ask for a printout of fees before applying to these agencies. Fees that are required within almost every agency are the deposit, fingerprinting, a physical and court fees.
Independent Adoption
Birth parents can also select to have an independent adoption, which allows the birth parents to select the future parents of the child. According to the State of California, parents are required to have a certain amount of knowledge, such as criminal record and financial information, about the prospective parents and to have it approved by the State. Birth parents are also required to contact an Adoption Service Provider, as these agencies will provide advice for the birth parents concerning rights and responsibilities. Upon signing an independent adoption agreement, parents are given 30 days to revoke the decision.
Foreign Adoption
Only licensed, private adoption agencies may assist in inter-country adoptions. Prospective parents must apply with the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services in order to have access to information about children overseas who are available for adoption. Following acceptance into the program, candidates are required to sign a contract which guarantees permanent adoption intentions.
Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act
As implemented by the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006, the CDSS and all other in-state adoption agencies require an extensive background screening before adoption is a possibility for any individual. This act affects the prospective parents and any adult who is living in the prospective home. Prospective parents are required to comply to an FBI criminal history check. Additionally, if any adults within the future home have lived out of the State of California within the past five years, he is required to have a completed child neglect or abuse check completed by his previous state of residence.
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