How do children end up in the foster care system?
Where do children go if they can’t be with their parents?
Typically, children are placed in foster homes if there is a dependency action and the child is removed from their parents’ home. A foster parent must be licensed to have a child placed in their home. More information on becoming a foster parent can be found here: https://www.dcyf.wa.gov/services/foster-parenting/become-a-foster-parent. One thing to note is that the process to become licensed can be long and difficult depending on the prospective foster parent’s situation. This generally isn’t something that happens overnight, so be prepared for the process to take time.
Foster parents can be unknown third parties to the family involved, or a family member or friend will be asked to undergo the licensing process so the child can be with them. Placements with people known to the child are generally a preference unless placement with a family member or friend isn’t possible. Foster parents are paid by the state to care for the child for the length of time the child is placed in their care (a few days, weeks, months, or years depending on the length of the dependency action and subsequent outcome). A foster parent can choose the terms of their fostering relationship, and can opt to be a potential adoptive placement.
How does a dependent child become eligible for adoption?
What happens after the parental rights are terminated?
What does the adoption finalization process look like?
A Few Final Thoughts
Choosing to adopt through the foster care system can be a great avenue for parents looking to expand their family and make an impact in a local child’s life. However, it can be a very long and involved process, and there can be a lot of uncertainty up to the point of the termination becoming final. Consulting with a private adoption attorney sooner rather than later can help make the adoption through foster care process a bit more transparent, but understand that a private adoption attorney’s role is quite limited. If you have questions about adoption through the foster care system, don’t hesitate to reach out to Navigate Law Group for an experienced attorney to assist you.
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Disclaimer
Every legal issue is very unique. Accordingly, the information in this blog is intended as general education material and not as legal advice. If you think you may have a legal issue, you should consult an attorney.