[Joyful Momma]

Ok guys and gals, I'm stumped. I've searched the net for info on this and am hoping one of the "adoption experts" can chime in.

A friend (who knows we adopted- doesn't everyone since I loudly and frequently advocate for waiting kids LOL) called with a question. Several years ago, her stepchild (who has a minor juvenile record and numerous issues) reported them (she and her hubby) for abuse. He also had his aunt do the same at the same time. CPS (Child Protective Svcs) came and investigated their home and found them to be "unfounded complaints". They went through the system and got the stepchild into anger mgmt classes, etc.

They have found out they probably can't conceive now. They want to adopt. Before they have the homestudy conducted (and flush money down the toilet), they want to know if this will affect them. They have other children who are perfectly happy and content who can testify (and have to CPS) that life there is great.

Does this vary by state? What are the rules on CPS complaints? I know that if someone is "charged" or "convicted", then it stands on record. What about anonymous complaints or "unfounded complaints"? Where do I tell her to start?

I'm clueless on this one. I feel terribly for her-- she's lost in this. Any help would be greatly appreciated.