How do I get started & How long does it take?

Originally Posted By StaciaI just completed this process - it's fairly easy if your child's biological father will consent. A paralegal can do this for you - it's about $600 in total. Only use a paralegal if you know the biological father will consent - otherwise it's a waste of money and you'll need an attorney. Basically, you provide the paralegal with a bunch of ducoments like the child's birth certificate, your marriage certificate any previous divorce paperwork, etc. then the paralegal files the petition for adoption. Right afterwards, you need to have the biological father sign a consent form infront of a county clerk. Then that consent form is filed. Your whole file goes over to the Social Services office in your area and eventually they will schedule a home visit - after the home visit - it can take up to 5 months to get the appointment scheduled (they are back logged) the social services officer files a recommendation - they almost always approve of the adoption unless there is something obviously wrong in the household - then a court date is scheduled - you go in with two documents - an adoption order and an adoption agreement -both are signed in front of the judge and boom you're done - you take the child with you to this hearing and take pictures cause it's very swesome. If the bioogical father is a jerk and won't sign off, it's alot tougher but doable - especially if he has never seen you child - it's even better if he's never paid child support - it's called failure to support - you have to have his parental rights termintaed - you'd need a lawyer for this. Hope this helps - good luck.