[Lilly's Mommy]

I am sorry for the loss of your sister!!!

I live in California and know of someone who has adopted without an attorney. We chose to utilize and attorney for our circumstances, but I know it isn't required. You definitely don't need an agency in this situation.

I'd strongly suggest contacting the California Dept. of Social Services Adoption Services Bureau first. They are required to be involved in every adoption in California (regardless of use of an attorney, agency, etc.), and will let you know of all the ins and outs re: a homestudy as well as your possible qualification for the Adoption Assistance Program. I recall from talking with our social worker that there are good programs for assistance, especially in circumstances such as your own.

You will potentially save yourself A LOT of money by contacting them first. You can find the contact info for the closest office to you on the web. If you don't have success with that, PM me and I'll give you the contact info to my local office. I'm sure they could get you headed in the right direction.

Good luck!