Adopting a child is one of the most beautiful decisions a family can make. But let’s be honest: the road can be rocky, especially when you’re bombarded with misinformation. As a family law attorney with decades of experience in Bucks County, I’ve seen firsthand how these misconceptions mislead families, only to make the process seem more daunting than it actually is. So, let’s cut through the noise and tackle some of the most common adoption myths head-on.
Myth 1: Adoption Is Very Expensive
This myth is more of a half-truth, as the cost of adoption can be high. For instance, domestic adoption in Pennsylvania through an agency- can cost anywhere from $25,000 to $50,000. International adoption can be even more expensive as there are citizenship fees, travel costs, and more to consider. However, if you go through foster care adoption, you will find a far more affordable alternative.
This state-sponsored system can cost next to nothing, as all foster parent training and support are provided for free. If you’re adopting a child you’ve already been fostering, the adoption process is also free. While there are some minor expenses—like clearances and filing fees—these usually don’t exceed $2,500. On top of that, foster parents receive financial reimbursement for the child’s care, and healthcare costs are typically covered.
However, foster care adoption comes with its own set of challenges. For one, placement is largely out of your control as the state’s primary goal is family reunification. This means there’s always the possibility that the child could be returned to their biological family. However, if parental rights have been terminated, then you can adopt.
Myth 2: The Adoption Process Takes Years
Again, the wait time largely depends on the avenue you choose. For instance, international adoptions tend to take longer due to cross-border legalities and the complexities of different countries’ regulations. On the other hand, adopting through foster care can move along much faster.
Here’s what I tell my clients as an adoption attorney: the length of the adoption process hinges on several factors, including:
- The child’s characteristics: If you’re hoping to adopt a newborn or a specific gender, the wait time may be longer, whereas adopting older children or siblings can be quicker.
- State waiting periods: Some states have legally required waiting periods before finalizing the adoption
- Readiness to finalize: The child’s or family’s preparedness for finalization can impact how quickly the process is completed.
Looking specifically at Pennsylvania adoption, the family profile process, also known as the “home study,” takes about 120 days. Once your profile is approved, matching services begin, and you’ll be registered with the Pennsylvania Adoption Exchange.
Myth 3: Adoption Is Only for “Traditional” Families
When it comes to adoption, the focus is not on what a family “should” look like. Rather, it’s about providing a loving, stable environment for a child in need. The key is meeting the adoption criteria, which usually center around your capacity to care. This is gauged by looking into several factors, including:
- Your past experiences and how they affect your readiness to adopt
- Your reasons for adopting
- How committed you are to providing a permanent home for a child
- For couples, the strength of your relationship and how you manage conflict
- What support system you have in place, such as friends or family members who can step in
Ultimately, adoption is open to all sorts of family setups—whether you’re single, divorced, part of an LGBTQ+ couple, older, or part of a non-traditional household. As long as you can provide a nurturing home and over 21, you’re eligible to adopt.
Myth 4: The Birth Parents Can Reclaim Their Child
This adoption myth stems in part from dramatic portrayals in movies and TV shows that depict birth parents showing up at the doorstep, demanding their child back. Like many things on screen, this is simply not how the law works.
In Pennsylvania, birth parents have to give their consent to the adoption. Once they do, that decision becomes legally binding after 30 days. There’s no backtracking. Then, after the adoption is legally finalized, the birth parents’ rights are permanently terminated. That said, the birth parents do have the right to change their minds during pre-finalization, which takes approximately six months. However, once the court finalizes the adoption, the child has a new, permanent home.
Myth 6: International Adoptions Are Legally Easier Than Domestic Adoptions
While some might assume that adopting a child from another country bypasses local legal hurdles, the truth is that international adoption comes with even more legalities. First, every country has its own set of adoption laws, which can differ considerably from U.S. adoption laws. Then, there are international treaties to navigate through, which aim to prevent child trafficking.
Even after you secure the adoption, you’ll need to secure a visa for the child, which involves going through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This can add more time to the process. Depending on the country you adopt from, you may also be required to send post-adoption reports for several years, which means ongoing legal obligations. In short, while international adoptions can be incredibly fulfilling, they are rarely the “easier” option.
Charting Your Course with Larry the Lawyer
Bringing a child in need into your home doesn’t have to feel like climbing a mountain. In reality, adoption is open to a wide variety of families, doesn’t have to cost a fortune, and – most importantly – doesn’t have to take forever.
If you’re considering adoption but are held back by adoption myths, questions, or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out. As an affordable family law attorney in Bucks County with flat fees and no-retainer, I can help you through the legalities, without the financial burden.
Call (215) 750-9202 or visit my website to learn more!
