[Kassiah]

I just found out that a relative has a 4 month old that she may be placing. She lives in North Carolina and I live in Louisiana. If it is a totally private adoption, do I need to do a homestudy? what should I do if she is ready for me to take the baby now--won't it take 3-6 months for a homestudy? Any advice is greatly appreciated!

[bajj]

I believe you will still need a homestudy. I would call an adoption attorney and ask.

[Kassiah]

Thanks do I need to contact one in my home state or the state that the baby is in? Thanks!

[carlam]

Kassiah, depends on where the baby is born. I looked into something close to your situation and I would have had to hire a lawyer in the state the baby was born and then had to also attend court in my home state with specific forms filled out. Whoever I would have had do my homestudy would have helped me with those additional forms. This would have been between Minnesota and Wisconsin.

[bajj]

I would start off calling one in your home state and they will let you know what you need to do.

[Kassiah]

Thank Ani and Carlam, I am all in a dizzy today. My friend is finding out for sure if she wants to proceed, she was calling an agency yesterday when her family told her about me. I am just worried that they will need the homestudy done first and the girl is ready for me to come like this weekend. I am going to call someone this afternoon!

[carlam]

Kassiah, call an attorney in your state, find out what you need to do to get placement. Then call an attorney in the other state and see what they have to say. I found that alot of the same things in both states had to take place. Be sure to ask about how to handle guardianship with intent to adopt. It's overwhelming honestly!

[bajj]

Homestudies can be done faster, when necessary.

[sbaglio]

I agree with the others...you definitely need a homestudy if you wish to legally adopt the child. The judge will want to know that your home and personal backgrounds have been vetted by the necessary authorities before she/he finalizes the adoption. A good lawyer who is well versed in these matters is essential.

[KIC1975]

My advice is to find an adoption attorney that is part of the American Academy of Adoption Attonrneys American Academy of Adoption Attorneys - Home
Call one in your home state and they will have contacts with other states. It's a great network. And they can tell you if you need a home study. Not all states require them. Good luck!