What are the steps that needs to be taken when adopting a child?

Is the process very rigorous? What are the disqualifying factors? Are the rules different in various States? Anyone from ND care to share? Thanks.
Additional Details
I am not trying to offend anyone. I am NOT thinking of adopting but know of someone (a couple) who is going through the process. I thought the adoption process is quite rigorous and only the best of the best in a host of different criteria actually get approved to adopt. I guess I'll know just how strict the criteria is when the person I know get approved or rejected.

Jennifer L

There are different options for adoption, domestic, foster and international adoption. Each option has their benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to look at each option carefully and make an informed decision on what's best for your family.

Regardless of which adoption choice you make, you will need to have a homestudy done. You'll have a background check, must be able to provide proof of financial security and provide required documents: birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.

Read books, attend classes, seminars, etc. Get as much information as you can.

Good luck!

Torrejon

Stop and think for a few moments about the CHILD. Educate yourself about the issue that the child will face throughout his/her LIFE. I was adopted at birth, am very well adjusted.... but, eeeh, some things are just different for us adoptees. I am currently struggling with explaining to my own children that I was given away without scaring them that THEY will be given away. Adoption is a life long journey for the adoptee. Doesn't THAT merit some study? ( I am AMAZED that no one else has responded to your question in this vein.)

HappyMomAnna

It depends on the type of adoption you are interested in.... and yes there are things that disqualify potential adoptive parents (PAPs) but, again that depends on the type of adoption.

Generally, every adoptive parent needs a home study which will include information about your finacial stability, criminal history, background and personal family issues and views.

Other wise it depends on if you are interested in adopting an infant, internationally or from foster care.

shorty

It depends on whether their adopting domestically or internationally. Dometically, they need to be careful if they are accepted. Tell them to check if the baby is an open adoption or closed. The process is intense, full of paperwork and courtroom visits. And it doesn't end when they are approved. The agency will check the house with surprise visits to check on the child's health and environment.

BPD Wife

The process can certainly seem rigorous when going through it. However, I do believe that most of the requirements are necessary to insure the safety and well being of the child. If it was an easy process, every child molester and abuser would be lining up outside of adoption agencies to "get their hands on a kid".

As others have stated, it really is dependent on many factors - the type of adoption that you are interested in, the country you are adopting from, the particular state's regulations, as well as any special regulations that the agency may have themselves.

Wish I could provide you a better answer, but without having all the details, it's difficult to provide you with a clear cut answer.

Good luck to your friends.

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