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 I am 24 years old, my wife will soon be 21.I am looking in to adopting my 16 year old 2nd cousin. His father my cousin is about to lose all rights to him, he is currently in a foster home. My mother had temporary custody of him several years ago while his father was in jail and the SRS is trying to get her to adopt him but she does not have the room, I do and we got along like brother and sister and I would like a chance to make a difference in his life in a possitive way. We are stable in our jobs and home,we have been married for 2 years and have a great relationship. Do you think we have a chance considering our age? Is there a certain amount of money you have to make in a year? Please help me with any information you can give me. Thank you for your time.
Answer Sure, you have a chance. A lot will depend on the people in the system that you are dealing with and also the maturity level of you and your spouse. The agency will look at your prior relationship with your cousin. It will help if you already have some kind of ongoing relationship. Make contact with the boy's caseworker and let him or her know of your interest. They will have to do an adoption home study for the court. When you talk to the caseworker ask about adoption subsidy which should be available.
In your case, if you do go ahead with this, I would strongly recommend that you and your wife visit a therapist to discuss the ramifications of what you are doing. You are going to need a lot of help and support if you move ahead on this.
