[nene1296]

Hi we have adopted once from PA, a private, independent adoption. We found going through the process with our attorney that he really didn't know what he was doing?
So does anyone know if you need a homestudy if it is a private, independent adoption? We live in IL and did at the time of the adoption and now we are moving to VA and maybe adopting again in PA (same birth mom) we still have over a year left on our homestudy, will that transfer to VA or still work in PA?
I know I am asking big questions but just curious if anyone else has had a similiar situation and might know.
We are looking into a different attorney this time.
Thanks to anyone who can help.

[DianeS]

Yes, you need a homestudy.

I do not believe that your homestudy is transferable when you move out of state. Every state has their own requirements, and you must follow the requirements of the state where you live. There will be requirements as far as what is asked, format of answers, etc. You can ask the social worker in your new state if any of the information is usable in an effort to cut down on cost or time, but don't be surprised if it all has to be redone.

Plus, part of the homestudy is a study of your HOME. Obviously that entire section will be different once you live somewhere else.

Hope that helps!

[nene1296]

Yes I figured we would have to do the home part over. Well, hoepfully we can still use some parts of the study.
Thanks for your input.

[Jennifer]

yes you do need a HS, they are not transferable and I can tell you that I hope you have 6 months on your side b/c you will need to have yourselves established in VA for min. of 6 mos. When we were adopting from VA almost 2 yrs ago... we live in PA too ..... my husband almost took a transfer with his company. We had been told that we would need to establish our new home, bank accts, etc. and prove we were residents of VA for 6 mos before we would be able to proceed with the adoption. Fortunately we declined the job transfer. In PA as other states homestudies are good for one year and than you need to have them updated along with all of your background clearances.

Hope this helps and good luck

Jen

[anxiousttc1]

We are looking to do an independent adoption in PA. I have an attorney and a counselor who can do birthmom counseling if she wants it.

Now I just need to find a birthmom.

Any suggestions or advice on how you found your birthmom?

[cmdunn1972]

Our agency was licensed in 5 states, including both PA and VA, and the homestudies were exactly the same for everyone working with that agency. (They used the strictest requirements of all 5 states in compiling the homestudy they used.) In our case, we might simply need to do an update.

Each state has their own standard for homestudies, so unless you used an atty or agency licensed in both states, you will likely have to complete a new homestudy. Also, since you are moving (and likely be getting a new job because of it), you are going through a major life change, so you would probably need a new one anyway.