[Barbara94563]

Hi everyone,

I'm new at this and the more I read the more overwhelmed I feel about all the options out there. I started out thinking that an agency would be the best way to go because of the counseling offered and the "one stop shopping" feel to it. Looking through the forums I see lots of people that prefer using an attorney. Seems like adoptive parents using them often have shorter waits using and the fees are less (?) than using an agency.

I would appreciate anyone's opinion and info on the matter.

thanks,
Barbara

[MaryElizabeth]

Barbara, I believe it's a personal preference. There is a lot of information available. When you go to an agency presentation, they will try and sell you on agencies. Attorneys will do the same when you call their office.

My husband and I went to a 6 week series "pre-adoption support group" put on by our local RESOLVE group (if you are not familiar with them, they are a wonderful resource on infertility and issues involved with it.) What we liked about that group was that they weren't "selling" anything and offered an unbiased approach to making a decision. We were with other couples in the same situation. I was very impatient at first thinking that I didn't want to WASTE precious time going to a group like that.....but it was a very wise decision for us.

We ended up going with an agency for the support and the fact that they are known for their good classes, open adoptions, and lifetime support for all involved parties.

Best of luck to you in your journey!!
Mary

[Barbara94563]

Thanks Mary,

I plan to look into RESOLVE support since I'm starting to realize that I do need help dealing with all of this. Infertility really takes it out of you .

Which agency did you end up going with? So far we've met with IAC and are going to attend an orientation at "adoption connections" in San Francisco.

thanks again,
Barbara

[MaryElizabeth]

Barbara,
We are using "Kinship Center" in Santa Ana, CA. They also have an office in Monterey. We finished our home study, now just (im)patiently waiting!
Mary

[Barbara94563]

You're on your way, good luck!!!

hope your wait is a short one

Barbara

[sara]

Barbara, I'm sorry to post my reply so late, but I just returned from vacation.

I agree that the choice between an agency and attorney for domestic adoptions is sometimes a matter of personal preference. In addition to the obvious differences in "skill sets," there are also significant differences in the timelines and processes.

I'm very glad you're looking into getting some information and support before you launch your adoption process! As a pre-adoption educator, I find all that too often, people who are eager to adopt rush into decisions before they have all the information they need to make good ones.

Have you had a chance yet to look into joining a support group? And have you checked out the two agencies you mentioned?

-Sara Lively