Once a family has determined that adoption is right for them, they are no doubt in a rush to bring that new family member home. It’s important to keep in mind, however, that adoption is not a race but, instead, is a process that takes time.
Getting matched in an Arizona adoption can be a lengthy process, but it is, of course, worth the wait.
While the adoption match process can take a considerable amount of time, there are special questions to consider in advance about one’s abilities as a potential caregiver. In the quest to bring home a new family member, special situations can occur and families can provide for a child in need.
The following are just a few of the special situations and considerations that come into play when it comes to finding a match during the adoption process.
1. Babies With Prenatal Exposure To Alcohol Or Drugs
Babies with prenatal exposure often have a shorter wait period. Prenatal exposure to alcohol and drugs can lead to considerable physical and emotional hardships, but these infants need loving parents.
Every adoption, just like every child, is different. Adopters should carefully consider the risks they feel comfortable taking on, and determine whether they are a good candidate to adopt a baby with prenatal exposure.
2. Babies From Families With A History Of Mental Illness
When a baby’s birth parent(s) or extended family has a history of mental illness, that baby may need placement quickly. Mental illness can have devastating effects on a child and a family, and there are inherent risks.
Because many mental illnesses may have a genetic component, it’s important for adopters to carefully take stock of their capacity to effectively parent a child who could potentially be more prone to mental illness.
3. Children Of Another Race
Sadly, non-Caucasian babies and children are harder to place. Being open to bringing a child of another race into the family allows the family and that child to experience diversity and acceptance right from the start in their own home.
Take time to consider how to bring the history and culture of the child’s biological background into the adoptive family. Talking to other families who’ve made this choice is a good place to start. An experienced adoption attorney and adoption case worker are also great resources.
4. Offer Support For Mom Prenatally
Arizona allows for a birth mother’s expenses to be paid by the adoptive family. So a family who is willing and able to afford to cover a mother’s expenses from early in the pregnancy may be considered a better match.
5. Timing, Luck, & Word Of Mouth
As with much else in life, luck plays a role in adoptions. Being ready, willing, and able to adopt when a baby becomes available or a child is in need is sometimes just the luck needed.
Also know that the birth mothers in most U.S. domestic infant adoptions choose the adoptive parents, so it’s in your best interest to get out there and network – talk about the desire to adopt (someone might just know somebody.) This could lead to being the lucky parents who are matched next!
It is important for anyone considering adoption to remember that adoption is fundamentally a legal process through which the adopter (and their spouse if applicable) form a legal relationship with another human being that will last for years.
Arizona adoption law underpins every aspect of the process from start to finish, so it is extremely helpful to have the advice and guidance of an attorney familiar with Arizona adoptions.
At Stuart & Blackwell, we work closely with individuals and families looking to adopt and do everything we can to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
We are qualified to help determine whether any issues may arise when trying to adopt, whether an open or private adoption is the right choice for a situation, and whether there is anything that can be done to maximize your chances that an adoption will go off without a hitch.
In addition, should any legal arise during the process, our lawyers will zealously represent your interests in court and ensure that your case is brought to the most favorable resolution possible.
Contact Stuart & Blackwell Today
Choosing to adopt a child is likely the most gratifying decision you’ll ever make. While the adoption match process can be daunting, the experienced adoption attorneys at Stuart & Blackwell are here to help.
We have the compassion, knowledge, and dedication to help you get matched. At Stuart & Blackwell, we specialize in adoption law so call us for your free consultation at (480) 420 2900 today.