[mandirenee]

You are required to have a homestudy by a licensed agency.

As far as the legal process, you might be able to do some yourself, but adoption laws are very tricky and you wouldn't want to risk your adoption.

I would suggest calling your states children services and asking them what is required for independent adoptions. They will be able to tell you.

But, even using an attorney you should be able to stay between $2,000-$6,000 depending on the specifics. And you can file for the adoption tax credit and get up to $11,000 back.

Best of Luck!!!!