Domestic Adoption Guide

Adopting a child is accomplished by taking one small step at a time with the Alliance staff assisting all along the way.

TAKE THE FIRST STEP...

1. Read the Alliance domestic adoption qualifications. If you live near our offices, you can attend one of our free domestic adoption information meetings. Please feel free to contact us at (781) 444-7148 or 877-40-ADOPT with any questions you may have.

Complete and send us your Domestic Adoption Application.


THEN THE NEXT...

2. Complete a successful homestudy, consisting of a series of meetings scheduled over two to three months, and at least one visit to your home.

THE NEXT...

3. Your social worker will help you prepare a Profile and "Dear Birthmother" letter, which will be presented to prospective birth parents.

AND THE NEXT...

Once a referral is made, Alliance will provide all services necessary to complete a successful adoption, including birth parent counseling, placement and relinquishment services, and Interstate Compact work for out-of-state adoptions, should that be necessary.

4. After your child arrives home, your social worker will begin post placement services. The social worker will visit your home at least three times to help you evaluate your child's adjustment and answer any questions you may have. These visits are required by state law.

AND FIND THAT YOU'VE BECOME A FAMILY!

5. Within nine to twelve months, you will be asked to legalize (finalize) the adoption of your child in your home state. This requires a brief court appearance which takes place during the first year your child is at home.