In this article, we will answer some frequently asked questions about adoption in Illinois. Adoption is when an adult becomes the legal parent of a child or another adult who is not their biological child. Adopting parents are then legally responsible to care for and support the adopted child, assuming the child is a minor. For more information on the Illinois adoption process, please read, “The Illinois Adoption Process Explained.”
In order to be eligible to adopt a child in Illinois, an individual must meet the following qualifications:
From start to finish, the adoption process takes around six months, but agency adoption may take longer.
According to Illinois law, adopting parents have to formally receive court approval prior to paying for a birth parent’s cost of living or attorney fees exceeding $1,000. Gifts are acceptable, however, the value cannot exceed $200. It is a felony to pay or receive money in exchange for a child.
In agency adoption, the adopting parents are entitled to information regarding the adopted individual’s mental, medical, and social history. In private adoption, the adopted individual’s biological parents have to give written consent to release this information to the adopting parents.
No. Only agency adoptions require a home study. Home studies often involve criminal background checks, home visits, and the disclosure of personal financial and medical information.
Adopting parents have to complete a 27-hour training to become fully licensed foster families. Once they are matched with a child, they must complete a 9-hour training focused specifically on adoption and the adoption process. After the adoption is finalized, the adoptive parents have access to a variety of services and resources to support them through their journey.
In most cases, no. Birth parents’ options are legally terminated prior to the formal adoption, so they will not have any legal rights to the child. The adoptive parents have absolute control over any contact between the adopted individual and his or her birth parents.
Thousands of children and young adults are adopted every year. If you are interested in adopting and would like more information on the legal aspects of the adoption process, please do not hesitate to call us today.
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