Types of Adoption
Within the categories of international and domestic adoption, parents must consider two basic channels through which to proceed: Agency-sponsored adoption or independent adoption.
- Agency adoptions – typical in most states and some foreign countries, agency adoptions can be both privately and publicly funded. The primary advantage of an agency adoption is the level of management and oversight usually involved, as these groups are required to adhere to certain state-set licensing procedures and practices.
- Independent adoptions – this process involves attorneys who must adhere to certain standards the Bar Association specifies in their arrangement of an adoption, as well as conditions of the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys.
A third option, adoptive placements via facilitator, offers the smallest degree of oversight and supervision. While many of these people are ethically-minded individuals, there are no real means of assuring their actions and standards.
Additional Considerations
When thinking about which avenue of adoption makes the most sense for you to pursue, there are several more factors to keep in mind, including:
- Cost variance – the service of a well-run, reputable state agency can be costly, but if the price is right, they can be a solid investment. Adoption attorneys and facilitators may be more competitive in their pricing, but again, considerations of licensing and reputation must be kept in mind.
- Location – always think about where the adoption is taking place, and what governmental organizations and red tape will be involved. Adoptions in some third-world countries can be notoriously fraught with difficulty, so parents looking at international adoption should be forewarned.
Contact Us
If you or someone you love is considering adoption, contact an experienced San Jose family attorney at the law offices of Daniel Jensen, S.C. today at 408-296-4100.
