Adoption Private Placement Guide, NY

On Behalf of The Law Offices of Joseph H. Nivin, P.C. 

There are many benefits of adopting a child and starting or expanding a family. This often is a great time in the lives of many, however emotions aside, there is a process that needs to take place when making decisions for the child.

Here is a short guide about private placement adoption in New York.

The adoption process terminates the parental rights of a child’s parent(s) and allows the adoptive parent to become the legal parent. The adoptive parent will receive a court order that names the adoptive parent as the child’s legal parent. An adoption attorney will draft and review contracts while working with the adopting and biological parents as they navigate the adoption process of a child or a step-child.

In New York, there are a few types of adoption. Some adoptions happen when a child is removed from his or her home by child welfare services and placed into foster care. The foster care agency is responsible for the child, and depending on the situation, the child can be adopted by the foster parents.

Two types of private placement adoptions.

1. When the parent gives up his or her child to a private adoption agency. The adoption agency is responsible for the child, and works to find adoptive parents who will adopt, love and care for the child.
2. A parent may be going through a tough time and cannot provide for the child, so the parent decides to place the child with family members, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, or siblings, instead of putting the child through foster care. Other times, a parent may have passed away, and another family member decides to step in and care for the child. Lastly, a stepparent may adopt a stepchild.

A family lawyer will file the adoption either in the Surrogate’s Court or in the Family Court. The process also involves a home study conducted by a social worker. Affidavits from the adoptive parent must also be drafted that state the adoptive parent’s relationship to the child. Fingerprints for a background check are also required for adults who live in the household of the adoptive parent.

Adopting a child can be a tedious and time-consuming process and can take from 6-12 months. But, the end result is a joyful beginning for the child and their adoptive parent.

If you are need legal assistance regarding an adoption, please contact The Law Offices of Joseph H. Nivin, P.C. to make the adoption process as smooth as possible!

Source: Private Placement for Adoption in New York, http://mobilizationforjustice.org/wp-
content/uploads/Private-Placement-Adoption-in-NY.pdf

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