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I would like to know if the state of Oklahoma has any laws against independent or private adopton agencies and if they exist in OK. Also are there any laws prohibiting the adopton(private through a lawyer)of a baby from Texas and the adoption parents living in OK. Also would a case worker still come and inspect your home before the baby is brought home in a private adoption. I'd appreciate any information. Thanks a lot. E-mail me when you respond.

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Originally Posted By KSilber

Dear fluffyco,

According to some information we have here at the Center, independent adoption is legal in Oklahoma. For more information about adoption laws or licensed adoption providers in your state, the contact person is Diane File, Oklahoma Dept. of Human Services, P.O. Box 25352, Oklahoma City, OK, 73125. Her phone number is (405) 521-2475.

As far as we know, every state requires a home study, which is the process you describe regarding a caseworker coming to your home. The home study usually involves a background check and visits with a social worker according to the requirements in your state.

It is also completely legal to do an adoption across state lines. This involves the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children (ICPC). The ICPC offices in Texas and Oklahoma must approve the child crossing state lines; this is a routine process. In interstate adoption, the agency in Texas would take the birthparents’ relinquishments, if this is being handled as an agency adoption, or, if it is being done as an independent adoption, an attorney in Texas would take the birthparents’ relinquishments. Paperwork would then be forwarded to the ICPC office in Texas, which would send it to the Oklahoma ICPC office. You can bring the baby to your home in Oklahoma as soon as both ICPC offices review and approve the paperwork.

First, you will need to determine if you are doing this as an independent or agency adoption, then the attorney or agency facilitating the adoption can advise you on the correct steps to take.

Good luck on your adoption!

Regards,
Kathleen

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[texas1977girl]

Hi, my name is Crystal Sue Hancock. Born in Sherman, Tx. on 1/8/77. But adopted in Oklahoma in the summer of 1983.
I don't know if you are allowed to do that but the adoption agency my adoptive parents said I was adopted thru...either doesn't exist or I just can't find it.
Crystal H.

[Boodlesforou]

My brother was born in Texas and his adoption was handled through a private agency in Texas and we were living in Oklahoma when my parents adopted him.
This was in 1978. If you want more info contact me at BoodlesForOU at aol dot com.

Tracy