Are you struggling to start a family with your partner? Having a child can be difficult for some couples – but you are not out of options. Adoption may be another way for you to start a family and provide a loving home for a child in need at the same time. Learn how to adopt a child in Colorado with this quick overview created by VanLandingham Law in Denver, CO.
How Does the Adoption Process Work in Colorado?
To start the adoption process – you must first become a certified foster parent in the State of Colorado. To be eligible to adopt a child, you must meet specific criteria – must be at least 21 years old or older, must pass a background check, must complete training and must undergo a home study. A good first step is to understand the three different types of adoption – adoption from foster care, international adoption and private domestic adoption. Here is a closer look at the types of adoption:
- Adoption From Foster Care – Right now there are 385 children and teens in foster care in the State of Colorado in need of a family. The primary goal of the foster care system is to reunite children with their parents, but when that is not possible, those children need homes and can make your home complete.
- International Adoption – International adoption means you adopt a child or teen from a different country. This process requires a visa for the child or teen that determines the type of international adoption and can be facilitated by international adoption agencies and a child adoption attorney.
- Private Domestic Adoption – When the biological parents of a child or youth relinquish their parental rights, that child may be eligible for private domestic adoption. Private domestic adoptions are arranged and managed by adoption agencies and adoption attorneys. VanLandingham Law can help you organize a private domestic adoption.
When you choose to adopt a child, youth or teen – no matter which type of adoption you choose – there are a few steps to the process that you need to follow. Prospective parents must attend informational sessions about the process and must attend core training that includes CPR, first aid and more. A home study conducted by the State of Colorado or a participating agency will determine if you and your home are ready to add a child. Potential parents must undergo a matching process to find a child that will fit into their home dynamic and post-placement supervision and support will help everyone adjust.
Who Can Adopt a Child in Colorado?
Do you think you are ready to adopt a child or teen? Do you qualify to adopt a child in Colorado? Yes. The State of Colorado has no restrictions for adoption based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender or marital status. Same-sex couples can adopt a child or teen in Colorado. You and your partner must be 21 years old or older and ready to make a commitment to a child with sound parental judgment and the ability to demonstrate a responsible, stable and mature lifestyle.