AboutPeter C. Winkler, CSW Expertise I have experience with adoption subsidy, the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children and variety of other adoption related matters. I hope that I can be helpful to those who are considering adoption or would like to adopt a child.
Experience I am a social worker with an MSW and I have over thirty years of experience in family and children's services. I have worked as Director of adoption services and of the Interstate Compact in a large state agency. I have also provided direct services to children and families in a preventive services program. I currently prepare adoption studies for those who are adopting domestically or internationally.
Question Hello. I am having a hard time trying to obtain answers, so I am hoping you can help me. My sister lives in California, and I now live in Oregon (as of 1 year ago). She is due with her 3rd baby in December and asked me if I wanted to adopt it. We have been trying for almost 3 years to conceive with no luck (we are not yet married). We are so, so excited about it, but can't find answers as to how to do this. Of course, attorney's offices always say that I "need" to hire one. Though, can we just do the paperwork ourselves? Or do we have to go through an agency and/or attorney? The father is signing a consent form as well and there are no objections anywhere. Does she need to have it in my state to make it easier? Sorry for all the questions. I just have not been able to find any answers either by calling Oregon's Human Services Division, or through the internet.
Thank you so very, very much for any help you can give me!!
Signed,
Very anxious and confused, Annette!!
Answer There are a couple of things to think about regarding the adoption you are discussing. Since you're not married right now, it might be necessary to go ahead and adopt as a single person. Also, if you plan to bring or have the child brought to another state (Oregon) after it is born then you legally have to go through the Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children. You'll need a lawyer for it in both states usually. If your sister comes up to your state before she delivers, you can avoid using the Compact, which would represent an additional cost. The other option is for you to move there, but not just visit.
Anyone who adopts will need an adoption home study done by a social worker. The home study is a report for the court that handles the adoption. The judge needs it to make sure you are fit to care for the child.
I also think you will need to hire a lawyer in your state to do the legal paperwork that the court needs.
