Your Guide to Child Adoption in Missouri

Adoption can be one of the most life-changing choices a person can make. Many people may say they want to adopt without knowing the full scope of everything that is involved. Our adoption lawyers at the Lake of the Ozarks want you to be prepared, so you are not caught off guard when choosing to make the life-changing decision of adopting a child and growing your family this way. If you are looking into the adoption process and would like an experienced adoption attorney at the Lake of the Ozarks to help guide you through this process, call Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, and Welch for your free consultation today at (573) 346-7231. Keep reading for guidance on the adoption process from our Lake of the Ozarks adoption attorneys.


The Time Commitment Involved When Choosing to Adopt a Child
Choosing to adopt a child is no short term commitment, it's for life. That child is legally your responsibility until they turn 18, and even after they are still a huge part of your life and this decision shouldn't be approached lightly.

Legal Requirements for the Parents
It is not uncommon for a judge to require the following:
  • Run a full background check on you
  • Request financial statements
  • Examine your work history 
  • Ask you for fingerprints
The court is looking into you for the best interest of the child.

The Ideal Adoptive Parent Should:
  • Have a stable income
  • Be willing to participate in and complete a free training and assessment process
  • Be part of a professional team willing to voice perspectives and concerns
  • Be willing to partner with the child's family
  • Complete a child abuse/neglect check and criminal record check including fingerprints
  • Be in good health, both physically and mentally
Family Support of Your Decision to Adopt a Child
If your family doesn't support your decision, this process can be quite difficult. That's not to say it can't be done, it's just nice to have the support of your family throughout this process, the positive environment can make all the difference.

Adoption Costs
The costs of adoption can vary drastically, but it's possible that it could cost you thousands of dollars. Once the adoption is finalized and you are officially a parent, you need to be prepared for the normal costs of raising a child as well.

The Length of the Adoption Process 
The adoption process can be quite long and require a lot of work. It is not uncommon for it to take years to complete. It is important to understand this and be prepared for it going in.



Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, and Welch are here for you and can help you throughout the adoption process if you are truly ready for this huge step. We can support you throughout this process and provide the legal aid you need to get through it. Please give us a call today for your free consultation at (573) 346-7231.


Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising. When you need a knowledgeable attorney, we invite you to contact us to set up a consultation. 

We accept Visa, MasterCard, and Discover.
109 East Highway 54, Suite 103
Camdenton, Missouri
(573) 346-7231 - Telephone
(888) 236-2485 - Toll-Free
(573) 346-4411 - Fax

Comments

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