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(Cross-posted due to no responses)
We have previously adopted 2 children through a full-service (from match to finalization) agency. For a number of reasons, we have decided to start this current adoption independently. Our state requires that an agency oversee the legalities, and that the birthmother receives counseling (no matter what state she is in). We have been contacted once so far, and it made me realize that I have no idea what to do should an "urgent" call come in--ie emom is in labor. Of course, I would contact our case worker who is overseeing our state's end of the deal, but then what do I do? Does the hospital case worker handle everything until business hours resume? Do I have to find a last-minute lawyer or agency or ?? If emom desires it, can I fly out to be with her/baby ASAP, or do I have to wait for some reason? Our case worker knows our state's laws well, but hasn't been much help in giving me direction. All she has been able to offer is that I should contact a lawyer or agency in that emom's state. But in the event of a last minute call, how would it work?
FYI, I know it seems trivial, and I realize we will likely match ahead of time. However, one of our boys was a last-minute call from the agency, so I know it can happen. I just want to have a plan of action--particularly in this case, when the call could potentially come from any state, and we are essentially on our own.
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I don't have an answer to give you, sorry. However when my husband and I started this process, a friend of mine referred me to someone at our state's Regional Office for Family and Children Services in their adoptions division. We were not planning to adopt through a foster to adopt process, but she assured me he would be helpful. He was! He talked to me by phone over an hour about everything, including independent adoptions, agency adoptions, foster to adopt, etc.-how to prepare a profile, an adoption budget, etc. Perhaps someone in your state would have the answers you're looking for or refer you to someone who does. . .an attorney who specializes in adoptions may also be able to answer some of these questions for you, too. Good luck!
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