What kind of backround checks are done when it comes to adopting a baby?

Question

I have a friend that is wanting to adopt a baby in the state of Pennsylvania and her husband has drug charges (marijuana) which were misdemenor charges 3-5 years ago and if that will cause problems in the adoption process and if so is there any way to have them exsponged because they know a girl that her mom adopted her and other children and had alot worse charges on her record. And what other backround checks and other checks do they do for an adoption process?

Answer 1

It varies by state but a criminal conviction, even a drug conviction, does not mean that you cannot adopt.  The process you go through depends on what route you take - whether private adoption, domestic agency adoption, international adoption, adoption out of the foster care system, etc.  But so long as you are up front and honest about any criminal records and can give a good explanation as to why you would still be good parents, adoption is not unavailable.

Answer 2

Each state varies, however, I can give you an indicaton of Maryland laws and requirements for adoption.

Full Criminal backround check, FBI fingerprinting

Full driving record (entire)

Extensive physical

Credit history, and current assets

Health and Human Svs inspection of your home

3 visits with social worker

Fire Dept inspection of your home

4 letters of recommendation from non family members about you and your spouse, partner, etc.

and the list goes on.....

It is pretty extensive, and takes time to complete (homestudy).

There are not tricks with adoption. They understand people make mistakes, however, you also have to understand that some do not feel that way. I would approach several agencies, and be upfront and honest, then take it from there. Drugs are not a good thing. Everyone knows that. However, try now to move forward from the mistake, good luck.

Answer 3

background checks

house checks

inviews i believe

they want a background check for each person living in the house

Answer 4

Generally speaking if you have any convictions for which a pardon has not been given your adoption chances are slim to none. All prospective adopters have to have criminal and child welfare background checks as well as home studies and psychological profiles completed.