If you live in Virginia and want to expand your family while enriching the life of a child, you may have considered adoption. When you decide that you’re ready to welcome a new child into your home, you’ll have to go through a state-approved process before the adoption is complete. Here are a few things to keep in mind from a family law perspective.
Expressing your interest in adoption
Virginia residents can call a toll-free number or visit the Adopt U.S. Kids website to find state-specific requirements for adoption. The Department of Social Services will then extend an invitation to an orientation where you’ll learn more about the children who are looking for homes. The orientation will also provide information pertaining to family law associated with adoption. Potential parents can also ask questions about adoption and learn about the qualifications that they must fulfill.
Foster parent training and home visits
Family Services offers foster parent training for potential adoptive parents. Individuals must complete 28-30 hours of training. During the home visit, all members of the household will be interviewed at some point. A series of visits is often recommended and a social worker will interview the prospective parents to find out why they want to adopt. This process could take up to 90 days or more in some cases.
After the home visit, potential parents will have to fill out paperwork to determine which children would be the best fit for their family. Once the foster parent’s home is approved, the local social services department will contact the parents to pair them with a child who could become a part of their family.