[glassblower]

Hello -

I am in my early 30s and recently plead no contest and was subsequently convicted of DUI. I have been following all procedures to resolve this matter expeditiously, consider it a stupid (and potentially dangerous) mistake, and am trying to put it behind me. While I make absolutely no excuses and take full responsibility for my actions, I do know with all certainty that it will never happen again.

My main concern is that I am infertile and am hoping to adopt with my fiancee in the next 8-10 years.

I am scared to death that my stupid (but serious) mistake will cause me to be unable to do so.

Does anyone have any experience or know? I realize it's "hypothetical" but I'd just like to know what to expect as far as the home study. Will my moral flub become a matter of public record if an adoption moves forward?

[Adoption_Ally]

My husband had an OUI in 1987, subsequently went into rehab and has been clean and sober ever since.

In 2000 we adopted our daughter Maya from Cambodia. We were up front with the adoption agency from the very beginning. Mark had to provide extra paperwork, including a signed affadavit from a Certified Alchoholism Counselor.

So, don't give up hope. It will probably depend on the adoption agency and/or country you adopt from (if going IA).

My only real suggestion is to be honest from the very beginning with your agency. What will bother them WAY more is if they find this out through another source such as your police clearance.

[xxsurroundedbyxy]

Try not to berate yourself. And remember, in 8-10 years there is no telling what the situation with foster care, adoption, and international adoption will be like and what rules will be enforced. DUI is not a felony offense and if you are honest and TRULY never let it happen again I can't see it hurting your chances.

Kim