[Aerin]

Recently my husband and I were contacted by a pregnant friend who wants us to adopt her baby. We planned on adopting older children so much of the research we've done doesn't apply in this situation.

As I understand it we need to contact an adoption lawyer and get a home study set up? right? How does one find a good lawyer? Is there a database? How do you start a home study if you aren't going through an agency or the state?

We live in Missouri and the birth family lives in Nebraska.

Thank you for your help.

Aerin

[kckm]

Hi Aerin
We adopted a baby from your state and had to hire an adoption attorney to represent us in Missouri. I will PM you with name and number. This attorney and staff were great. Not sure of Nebraskas laws, but I am sure they will be able to assist you. Our attorney in our state recommended us to a social worker to get our home study done. I would imagine this office can direct you to someone.

Good Luck!

[kiwi]

Go to http://AdoptionDirectory.com, click "advanced search" and look for attorneys in the state you live in I suggest calling several so you can get a good feel for fees and how much they will do for you.
Good luck and a speedy journey to you!

[pgecco]

Yours would be a private adoption. No home study needed. This private pary is in direct contact with you and is willingly to give custody to you. Thus you need only an attourney to do paperwork for you. For the future, you mentioned wanting older kids. If you choose to go through the state (foster care) you will need a home study etc. but then DSS (dept. social services) can tell you what lawyers they see all the time that will await payment from the state or only charge the state reimbursed fees. Good luck. And CONGRATS!