[Mistymouse]

I am considering starting the process to be a foster parent within the next few years. My question is this:

I have no criminal record, and have worked with children for many years. Could I be denied for the acts of other family members who do not live in the same household?

My father went through what you might call a mid-life crisis and broke into some neighbors' houses several years ago. He did not steal anything. He spent a few nights in jail. He has since gone to counseling and has completed his community service. He continues to pay his fines.
My brother has also spent time in jail. He was dating a girl who had told him she was of age. It turns out that she wasn't and he ended up being charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. He recently got married to someone he met after he got out of jail. She is a sex offender. Her case was different from my brother's.

Will this completely ruin my chances to be a foster parent and/ or adopting?

[wanabe mom]

Are these family members living with you or do you see them on a regular basis? If so, I would be concerned about referrals. If your friends or neighbors know about the sexual charges against your brother and sister-in-law and the inform social services that you spend a lot of time with them, then that could be a concern for social services.

I don't know if it's different for each state, but when I had my home study, they only did background checks on the people living in my home. We have a full size rental apartment in our basement and they had to run a background check on our renters. They never asked for information on family members. The only time I had to discuss my family was during our home study when we talked about our background and how I was brought up. I'm sure they will ask about your background, what your relationship with your siblings and parents were and how they are now, but I don't think they will complete a background check.

[Mistymouse]

Thank you for your response!

These family members do not live with me.

I see my mother and father more regularly than my brother. My parents come to see me about once a month or so.

I only see my brother when go home which is usually for holidays only. Currently, my brother and his wife lives with my parents. They, hopefully, will be moving out on their own soon. My brother and I get along okay, but we do share different views on life. I am not too concerned with him doing harm to a child.

We were not abused in any way growing up as children.

I plan to be open and honest with the agency about the whole situation.