Adoption is one of the most rewarding ways to add to your family. If you know anyone who has gone through adoption, you know that the process can be lengthy. The average wait times range from several months to several years. That leaves many people wondering what, if anything, they can do to speed up the adoption process. There are a few things that may help to reduce the wait and processing times for adoption.
Learn About Adoption
One way to make the process easier and less stressful is to learn more about adoption. When you know what to expect, you can prepare for the various steps in advance. You will also be able to make decisions more easily when they arise. There are many types of adoption, including public adoption, adoption through private agencies, international adoption, independent adoption, and adoption by a relative or stepparent, among others.
Be More Flexible
Sometimes, there is a longer wait for infants or newborns as well as for children born in the United States. You may be able to reduce some of the wait time by being more flexible in your choice for an adoptive child. Consider older children or those who are from other ethnicities or nationalities. If you are open to a variety of options, you will be able to consider choices that may be faster or less restrictive.
Look Into Foster Care Adoption
Foster care is an option that is sometimes overlooked by those who wish to adopt. In Wisconsin, the foster care program allows foster parents to adopt in some situations. For example, when the parents or family members are unable to care for a child and relinquish their parental rights, foster parents may be able to adopt the child. Foster parents provide a child with a stable and loving home, often for extended periods of time or until the child is adopted.
Complete the Home Study
A home study is required for most adoptions. The Structured Analysis Family Evaluation (SAFE) is a standardized assessment for those who are adopting or fostering children in Wisconsin. It can be helpful to begin preparing for the home study as soon as it is allowed in the process. By doing so, you will eliminate any holdup that might be due to the completion of the home study. Obtain a home study checklist through the adoption agency so you can begin preparation.
Work With an Experienced Adoption Attorney
An experienced adoption attorney will help guide the process and keep your adoption on track. Your lawyer will assist in the details of the legal aspects of adoption. Regardless of the type of adoption you are seeking, your lawyer knows the steps necessary and will anticipate how to prepare in order to keep the process moving forward. Your lawyer will help to prevent any types of delays that could cause the adoption process to take longer than anticipated.
At Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd., we have experience assisting with all types of adoptions in Wisconsin. To learn more, contact us at Moen Sheehan Meyer, Ltd. at (608) 784-8310 or online to schedule a consultation.