Choosing to give a child a home with you through adoption is a beautiful thing. While adoption could be the most rewarding thing you ever do, you must recognize the gravity of the commitment you are making and how it can change your marriage.
Deciding to adopt
Couples reach the decision to adopt in different ways, some for personal or health reasons, while others are step-parents or foster parents who wish to adopt.
Many couples come to adoption after years of struggling with infertility. This takes its toll, and it would be wise for couples in this position to consider if they are ready to embark on the adoption process.
Before you set the wheels in motion, you will want to be sure that your relationship is strong, your finances and adoption budget are in order, and you are ready to face the somewhat intrusive home study requirement.
Financial considerations
Adoption will inevitably have a significant impact on your family finances. Domestic open adoption, private adoption, and international adoption are expensive endeavors costing anywhere from $15 to hundreds of thousands of dollars. This is before you even consider the costs of raising and educating a child.
Emotional considerations
Adoption is a highly emotional process, and minor frustrations or delays can hit hard. In particular, you should be prepared for the home study required in nearly all North Carolina adoptions. An evaluator will make several visits to your home, interviewing you carefully to prepare a report for the court’s review.
Practical considerations
You have to preempt the countless practical arrangements you will need to make to adopt and raise a child. Ahead of the home study, you will want to hammer out all the practical details with your partner regarding how you plan to raise your child. You should discuss everything from childcare to education and parenting philosophies.
Experienced North Carolina Family Law Attorneys
If you are considering adoption, schedule a consultation with our compassionate and caring attorneys. Whether an agency or private adoption, local, interstate, or international, we have the experience to help. Caulder and Valentine support parents throughout North Carolina from our offices in Shelby and Gastonia. You can call us on (704) 470-2440 or contact us online today.
