November is National Adoption MonthNovember 12, 2021
Adopting a child can sometimes be challenging, but compared to the joy a child brings, it can surpass everything. The family that adopts children can teach them moral character and good values as well as to become more confident in reaching their potential and giving back to their community. Through adoption, children who were once abandoned, orphaned, or abused get the second chance to love and be loved and have a great family by their side who will secure a safe environment and support them.
So, commemorating November as the National Adoption Month, allow us to share with you some of the important information about the legal implications of adopting a child in Pennsylvania.
Can Anybody Adopt a Child in Pennsylvania?
If you are thinking about adopting a child, the first question that may pop up in your mind is, “What are the requirements to adopt a child in Pennsylvania?”
Under the Pennsylvanian adoption law, there are no legal requirements in terms of age, gender, sexuality, or marital status, and any individual is allowed to adopt.
It is best for prospective adoptive parents to be financially, emotionally, and physically capable and ready for adoption before proceeding with the entire process. Additional steps will likely be necessary before you will be allowed to adopt, such as foster parenting classes and adoption home study.
Background Checks For Prospective Adoptive Parents
Prospective adoptive parents need to undergo background checks before finalizing the adoption placement. Under the Pennsylvanian adoption law, the requirements for background checks may vary depending on the kind of adoption one pursues. This can include criminal background checks, home study, and fingerprinting.
For instance, if you are pursuing a private domestic adoption, you will be required to have a full home study investigation. However, if a relative or a stepparent is adopting the child, then it may not be necessary to complete the entire home study.
Before you think about pursuing adoption, you can always speak to an adoption lawyer and professionals who can help shed light on the background checks specific to your circumstance.
Adoption Laws for Birth Parent Expenses
One must remember that under the Pennsylvanian adoption laws, it is illegal to pay a birth parent with any living expenses. A prospective adoptive parent can pay for the medical and counseling expenses of the birth mother.
Always remember that before you pay any adoption expenses, you should contact an experienced adoption lawyer who can evaluate the prospective mother’s situation and assist in the adoption expenses legally.
Adoption Laws for Prospective Birth Mothers
Pennsylvania’s adoption laws also have a specific law that protects the rights of a prospective birth mother during the entire process of adoption. If you are a prospective birth mother, you have the right to choose if the adoption is the best fit for you.
Should you have any questions regarding the adoption process and whether adoption is the best option for you and your baby, then you need to seek expert advice from an adoption lawyer so that you can understand any adoption laws applicable to your situation.
Reach Out to an Experienced Adoption Lawyer!
Whether you are a prospective birth mother or an adoptive parent, it is essential for you to understand the entire adoption process before starting your journey to adoption, and that includes understanding the Pennsylvanian adoption laws.
DaleyZucker has a team of experienced adoption lawyers in Pennsylvania that specializes in family law. If you have questions regarding the process of adoption and/or the adoption laws, reach out to us today at (717) 971-8628!
