[MelissaB1]

Hi there,
I was wondering if anyone knew if its require by law to have an attorney by law in the state of Ca. Im wondering if theres a do it yourself adoption option? My sister just passed away in sept. and left behind my 1 yr. old niece. She was a single mom so theres no dad. I want to keep cost down because the funeral expenses left us practically broke. Do I even need an agency? I know I have to get a homestudy done is that only thru an agency? Im just about to get started with the process but very confused on how to get start. My niece is already with us I just want to make it all legal that she's ours.

Any input would help greatly. Thanks

[Nevada Jen]

Actaully, I think your best bet would be to consult an attorney. In most states you do not need a homestudy for a family adoption. One consultation with an attorney should set you on the right path and you should be able to do the rest yourself.

Jen

[Lilly's Mommy]

I am sorry for the loss of your sister!!!

I live in California and know of someone who has adopted without an attorney. We chose to utilize and attorney for our circumstances, but I know it isn't required. You definitely don't need an agency in this situation.

I'd strongly suggest contacting the California Dept. of Social Services Adoption Services Bureau first. They are required to be involved in every adoption in California (regardless of use of an attorney, agency, etc.), and will let you know of all the ins and outs re: a homestudy as well as your possible qualification for the Adoption Assistance Program. I recall from talking with our social worker that there are good programs for assistance, especially in circumstances such as your own.

You will potentially save yourself A LOT of money by contacting them first. You can find the contact info for the closest office to you on the web. If you don't have success with that, PM me and I'll give you the contact info to my local office. I'm sure they could get you headed in the right direction.

Good luck!