Requirements to Adopt a Child in Pennsylvania
The process of adopting a child can be invigorating, causing a prospective family to feel eager to meet their newest family member. The nuances of the process may feel intimidating, making you question whether it is worth it. If you are considering adoption or have already begun the process, the adoption lawyers at Purdy Law, in Harrisburg, PA, are ready to answer any of your questions. In this article, our legal team discusses the requirements to adopt in Pennsylvania.
Does PA Have an Age Requirement for Adoptive Parents?
Although the Commonwealth does not have a specific age requirement to adopt, foster care agencies do require that you be at least 21 years of age. Private adoption agencies may have their own age requirements. If you are concerned that your age may be a problem, our legal team is happy to address your concern with the adoption agency with which you are working.
Do I Need to Pass a Background Check?
Yes, as a prospective adoptive parent, you will need to pass a background check. The Pennsylvania screening process consists of three background checks: a PA Child Abuse History Clearance, a criminal record check, and an FBI fingerprint clearance. If you do have a criminal record, this will not automatically bar you from adopting, as long as you were not charged or convicted of a disqualifying offense. Disqualifying offenses may include domestic abuse, drug-related offenses, child abuse, or sexual assault.
Will I Need to Provide Evidence of Income?
The initial application and screening require that prospective parents provide financial statements verifying their income. This will include W-2s, tax returns, bank statements, and a letter from your employer verifying employment. If you have additional sources of income, you will need to provide financial statements related to those as well.
Is an Interview Necessary?
As part of a home study, a social worker will meet with you or you and your spouse. These meetings will allow you to ask any questions you have about the adoption process. Questions may be related to costs, post-adoption services that may be available, or challenges that come with raising a disabled child (if applicable). The social worker will also ask you about your reasons for adopting, your life experiences, and your previous experience with children. If you are married, the social worker will want to know more about the stability of your marriage and how you and your spouse handle disagreements. The more information gathered will help the social worker assess your suitability to adopt.
Do I Need to Show I’m Healthy?
As part of the application and initial screening, prospective adoptive parents will need to provide a statement from their doctor attesting that they are overall healthy. The adoption agency will want to see that you are physically and mentally capable of raising a child. If you have a serious or life-threatening condition, this could be a hindrance to adopting.
Guidance from Experienced Harrisburg Adoption Attorneys
The process of adopting a child can feel overwhelming, especially when the laws surrounding adoption are complex. At Purdy Law, our adoption lawyers assisted numerous families in welcoming new members into their families. If you or a family member is considering adoption, now is the time to speak with our legal team. To arrange a meeting contact us online or by phone at (717) 674-2885 today.