There are two main types of domestic adoption in Indiana: agency adoption and private adoption. If you’re someone who is thinking about adopting, you might encounter these types in your research. Below, we discuss the differences between the two and which one might be more ideal for you.
What is Agency Adoption?
Agency adoptions are adoptions that occur through a private or public adoption agency.
Private agencies are privately funded and operate through a license in the state where they conduct business. They also handle both international and domestic adoption processes.
Public agencies, however, are a part of the state’s social services program. They only handle domestic adoptions and often specialize in handling the adoption of sibling groups, older children, or children with special needs.
What is Private Adoption
Also called independent adoptions, private adoptions occur directly between the birth parents and the prospective adoptive parents. The process is supervised by an attorney, so both parties understand the laws that govern the adoption process.
Private adoption is legal in most states except Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, and Minnesota. People who have identified birth parents and wish to adopt from these states must do so through an adoption agency.
Why Private Adoption is the Better Choice
Both agency and private adoption have their unique benefits. Agency adoptions, for example, come with more rigorous training and counseling for both birth parents considering adoption as well as prospective adoptive parents.
Process-wise, however, private adoption is a much better option. For one, there are fewer requirements to meet if you want to adopt a child.
Whether the child and the prospective adoptive parents match is completely up to the birth parents. The only requirements are those mandated by the state law, which is already sufficient to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all parties, particularly the child.
Grow Your Family the Legal Way
Regardless of the type of adoption you choose, having legal counsel is relevant to the process. The guidance of a family law attorney can mean the difference between a smooth and successful adoption process and one that’s difficult and stressful.
Taylor, Chadd, Minnette, Schneider & Clutter P.C. is a team of experienced attorneys providing legal assistance for private adoptions in Indiana.
Book a consultation with us today.