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Choosing An Adoption Professional What are your specific needs? What do you need the adoption professional to provide for you? Many people have no idea about the procedures of adoption. Ask a lot of questions! You do not need to just assume that the agency is going to provide you with the support and information you need. Possible Questions What counseling services do you provide? Are you a facilitator or licensed agency, or accredited attorney? Will you explain and make sure I understand the adoption laws? What are your
procedures for matching? Do you help me explore all my options? Do you help me with financial issues, if I need it? What are your Open Adoption Policies? Do you offer post-placement counseling or assistance? Can you explain relinquishment procedures and laws? What happens if I choose to parent? Do you offer any labor/delivery support? ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Find an Agency:
General Research Are they legal / legitimate? -- Are they licensed? Is the organization a registered charity? How long have they been licensed? State licensing authorities. State attorney general's office., Secretary of State's office (in the state in which the adoption agency operates.) Are there any complaints regarding this agency? Remember, you can always register a complaint if you feel you have cause! Call the Better Business Bureau in the City in which the organization is located. Check with the IRS. Is this organization a registered 501(c)(3) charity? Do they file their reports every year? How long have they been registered? National Adoption Directory - find the State Licensing Specialist Division National Council For Adoption, 1930 17th Street, Washington, DC, 202-328-1200 The National Adoption Information Clearinghouse (NAIC), P.O. Box 1182 Washington, DC 20013-1182, (703) 246-9095 The Adoption Guide , choosing an agency
Joint Council on International Children's Services, 7
Cheverly Circle, Cheverly, MD 20785-3040, |
