[monroeman]

Make sure that the caseworkers know that you want to be considered as the adoptive placement if that is the way the case goes.

You have to have a home study completed to be eligible. Many, maybe most, foster parents have not done this. I couldn't tell from your post whether or not you have this in place already. If you don't, the state should do it for you without charge. You can usually get reimbused if you pay an outside agency to do the HS, but only if you are chosen as the adoptive placement.

As soon as TPR is done DCFS identifies an adoptive placement. Remember that there is an appeals period after TPR - usually 30 days. It ain't over 'til it's over. Right now, with only two months in the placement, a family member would usually be chosen, provided there can be found one who wants to and who can be approved. It doesn't sound like there are any, so it is likely that you would be chosen as the adoptive placement. If TPR takes a while, the bond the child forges with you often overrides family ties and the child is place with the foster family.

Once you are chosen as the placement for a child you need to retain an attorney to help with the finalization. The state usually reimburses this expense. It wouldn't be a bad idea to just consult with one now to make sure that we're steering you straight. This is what I did while my son's birthmom was in the TPR process. It didn't tangibly affect the outcome, but it provided me with peace of mind. It cost a little, but was worth it to me.

Hope this helps.