How to File for an Adoption Without an Attorney

Filing for an adoption without an attorney can be a challenge.

Adopting without a lawyer is known as adoption, "Pro Se." Doing so is generally not advised because the particulars of the process depend on the situation and failing to adhere to the prescribed process may result in a rejection and added expenses. While there are aspects of this process that are common across the U.S., adoption law varies from state to state. Before you begin, become familiar with your city or state's adoption requirements or forms by going to the local court's website.

Things You'll Need

• Child you intend to adopt
• Agency for home study
• Forms

Instructions

1. Submit an adoption application to an adoption recruitment agency. The agency's social workers will review your application, make sure the necessary basics are present and contact you to schedule a home study.

2. Have the agency conduct a home study. The home study will supply the child welfare agency and the courts with all the information needed to place a child in your care. You and a social worker will meet on a few occasions throughout the course of the home study. You will need to present several documents including copies of your birth certificate(s), marriage license (if relevant), income tax returns and medical reports prepared by your doctor. All adults in your home will need to be fingerprinted and cleared through the appropriate agency in your state. The amount of time a home study takes is based on the particular circumstances.

3. Submit your home study to the local court or have the agency do it for you (depending on the how this is done in your state or city). Request a hearing.

4. Attend court on the date of your hearing. Bring the completed forms needed for your state and situation, such as the Adoption Agreement, Adoption Order or whatever forms your state requires.

Tips & Warnings

• Some states will require you to receive parenting classes before completing your home study.

• In some states, you will need to have chosen a child before you begin, while in others you will choose a child after having begun the process.

• Remember, every state is different so do not begin the process until you are aware of all the forms needed and the order they must be filed in.

References

• Easy Adopt: Adopting Without a Lawyer

Resources

• NYC Administration for Children's Services: How Do I Adopt?
• California Courts Self-Help Center: Independent, Agency, or Foreign Adoptions in California