Adoption Paperwork for NJ DYFS Adoption?

Question

Hello Everyone! My husband and I are currently foster parents in NJ of a little girl and are moving forward with the adoption process. We now have 2 case workers (the child is in the process of becomming legally free).

My question is what paperwork will we need to have ready for the adoption process? While we have the summer free, we thought it would be best to get everything in order. Thought the Yahoo! community could help!!!

Thanks in advnace!

Answer 1

As a DYFS NJ foster parent who has adopted two boys, I remember that choosing an attorney was as also a key ingredient to the adoption process.  There should be a list of attorney's that specialize in DYFS adoptions which FAFS of your DYFS caseworkers should give to you.  Don't forget to ask the caseworker(s) to prepare a memory book for your child (if they haven't done so already).  This will come in handy later on when your child is old enough to ask questions about where they came from.  Good luck!

Answer 2

First of all, good luck and congratulations to you!

You may consider getting these documents together:

1.  Copy of your marriage license

2.  Copy of any divorce decrees

3.  Copy of mortgage or rental lease

4.  Copy of your bank statements

5.  Copy of your pet vaccination, and letter from the vet about the health of the dog, etc.

6.  Job letters

7.  Tax returns

8.  Birth certificates

9.  Letters from your doctor

10.  Letters of recommendation

This should give you a running start!

Answer 3

Most of what you'll need, paperwork wise, really can't be done too far in advance.  You'll need an updated fingerprint check, updated background and police checks, and physicals for all adults in the household.  None of these can be more than 6 months old, so doing them now may mean doing them again in a few months.  If you need more answers, you can contact your Resource Family Advocate at 609-520-1500.  Just tell them which county you live in and they can direct you to the right person.  It's a free service for foster and adoptive parents in NJ.