What is a private adoption?

A private adoption is a legal process in which a child is placed with an adoptive family by a private adoption agency. This type of adoption is commonly referred to as an “independent adoption.” In Delaware, private adoption agencies are regulated by the state’s Department of Services for Children, Youth and Their Families (DSCYF). In a private adoption, the birth parents make an informed and voluntary consent to the adoption. They are usually provided with counseling and support to ensure they fully understand the adoption process. After the consent has been given, the adoption agency will find a suitable adoptive family for the child. The adoptive family will undergo a home study process which assesses their suitability as potential parents. Once the home study is approved, the adoptive parents and birth parents can then meet and form a relationship. The adoption agency can also provide additional support for the birth and adoptive parents during this time. If the adoptive family and birth parents agree to the adoption, legal documents must be signed to finalize the adoption. The private adoption process can be completed in as little as one month, however it can take much longer depending on the situation. Private adoption agencies must be licensed in Delaware and all adoption processes must follow the state’s adoption laws. Adopting a child is a life-changing decision and private adoption agencies are available to assist families through the process.

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What is a private adoption?

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