What steps would I have to take to Adopt?

Question

I'm a 31 year old single man and would like to adopt a boy in the 8-13 year old range. I am very secure financialy, I am a business owner, home owner, and have a great supporting network of friends and family. My grandmother doesn't understand why I want to do this she thinks I should just get married and have kids. I find I enjoy older kids and being raised by a single mother I can appreciatte the love one person can give. I am just curious at this time to find out a little more information on the process of adoption, I realize this is a lifetime committment and don't want to rush into anything. I may also be open to providing a fosterhome as well. What are the time frames and requirements for adoption in California. Thanks

Answer 1

laws adopt

Answer 2

In Los Angeles you simply call the Department of Child and Family Services and tell them what you are interested in. You will need a background check,  an adoption study (letters of recommendation, financial records, fingerprinted, etc). This usually takes a few months. The DCFS will require that you attend a series of Foster/Adopt workshops.Once you have been approved and completed the process you will have a child placed with you. They will pay you once a month regardless if you adopt or just foster.

Requirements change from county to county, check with your local DFCS office.

Answer 3

Here is the website for the agency I used in Los Angeles.  www.adoptionhelp.org.   They are great. They work with g**s, singles, older people etc.  

You will have to do some of the following things. But the agency will go over everything with you and walk you through each step.

1. Background Check

2. Physical- Drug Test

3. Home Study

4. Lots of Paperwork etc.

The time frame all depend on you. How long it takes you to do your physical, background check, and home study etc.  This agency is also great because you can basically tell them what kind of race you want the child, what age, etc.

Hope everything works out for you.