Summary of Initial Adoption Consultation with Colleen M. Quinn and the Adoption & Surrogacy Law Center (where there is no identified placement):
- Overview of Adoption – providing a framework within which to operate (understanding agency versus parent/private/independent/direct placements) – practical and legal distinctions, sorting out entities on the internet;
- Explanation of the home study and agency’s role.
- How foreign adoptions and foster parent/public agency adoptions fit into the framework.
- How to avoid committing a Class 6 felony: Explanation of permissible versus non-permissible payments in Virginia including payments for matching (licensed child placement agencies versus facilitators versus licensed facilitators).
- Review of expected costs.
- Cautionary advice in signing adoption agency agreements and in working with agencies.
- Review of search options and methods.
- Explanation of search materials needed including developing effective adoptive family profiles.
- Develop tailored adoption action plan to fit each adoptive parent(s)’ budget, time constraints, skills & talents, and personal preferences.
- Recommended agencies.
- Large package of resource materials provided.
- Distinguishing between interstate versus in-state placements.
- Understanding how placing parent rights are addressed including how consent and revocation periods work.
- Clarifying risk factors.
- Avoiding scams.
- What to do when contacted by a potential placing parent.
- Planning for the adoption tax credit.
- After consultation – added to the Adoption & Surrogacy Law Center lead list (sent by email) at no charge.
Dated: 3-31-2012