When it comes to adoption, you’ve probably heard statements like “Adoptions are so expensive!” and “Adoptions are super complicated!” To make your life easier, this article will provide some information on the cost of adoption in the state of Utah. We also briefly go over the process of adoption in our state.
Although there are different types of adoption, this article will focus on the overall process of adoption and why it might seem complicated and expensive.
The Different Types of Adoption in Utah
As with other states in the United States, Utah has different types of adoption. These different forms of adoption all have different processes and laws that apply to them.
Here are three of the main forms of adoption in our state:
1. Foster Care Adoption
Foster care adoption is when an individual or family seeks to adopt a child within the foster care system. Usually, the state of Utah will first try to place the child with extended family or relatives before placing the child in adoption with another family or individual.
The costs associated with adopting a child in foster care are shared between the state of Utah and the adoptive parents (or parent). This means that the cost of adopting tends to be less expensive than, say, an international adoption.
The process o
f adopting a child placed in foster care is, nevertheless, rigorous and will require an attorney. For example, you will need to take parenting classes and complete a home study with the Division of Child and Family Services. You will need a lawyer to help you understand the paperwork associated with the adoption. You will also need a lawyer to help you finalize the adoption process. Should your adoption claim be rejected by the state, you will also need someone to advocate for you and your situation.
2. Private Adoption
Private adoption is a type of adoption that does not require going through the foster care system. With this type of adoption, the biological parents seek to place the child with another family or individual who seeks to adopt the child.
The cost of private adoption tends to be higher than with foster care adoption. For example, private adoption means that potential adopters usually pay for the biological parents’ getting counseling, the cost of training, the cost of the home study, and any medical issues or care that’s needed.
The process of pr ivate adoption tends to require additional legal advice and support as various agencies and the biological family tend to be more involved. It’s important to note that private adoptions are the most common in Utah.
3. International Adoption
International adoptions are similar to private adoptions in that the parents work with private agencies and have to complete a similar process to a private adoption. Nevertheless, international adoptions are often trickier and expensive than the previously mentioned forms of adoption.
For example, international adoption involves meeting not only national and state requirements, but also international requirements. Each country will have different requirements that adoptive parents must meet.
International adoption costs include paying for counseling, education/training, traveling costs and more.
Why You Need a Lawyer In Your Adoption Journey
There are many reasons why you need a lawyer and legal advice in your adoption journey. Here are just a few of them.
- A lawyer will be able to help you understand the different state, national and international laws that apply to you and your situation. Instead of trying to figure it out on your own, a lawyer will help you answer the questions you may have.
- A lawyer will be able to help you complete the paperwork associated with your case. For example, if the potential child has special needs, your legal team would help you complete the paperwork associated with these needs. The need of a legal team is especially important in finalizing paperwork.
- A lawyer will help you prepare for the different hearings that you’ll need to attend. Because the adoption process involves different courts, you will need someone who understands what needs to be done.
What Makes Kaufman, Nichols & Kaufman Leaders in Family Law?
At Kaufman, Nichols & Kaufman, we have many years of experience in working with different adoption cases. Our law firm will simplify and streamline your adoption journey so that you can be with your loved ones.
Our firm will go over the laws and regulations that apply to your case, help you with your paperwork, and advocate for you and your family. In your adoption journey, you will need a team that understands your situation, needs, and desires. At our firm, we listen to you and help you achieve your goals.
Reach out to us for a consultation so that we can help you and your family!