Adoption in 1912

I'm writing a novel that takes place in 1912 and I need to know how complicated the adoption process was. My main character wants to adopt a wealthy little boy whose life she saved--how difficult is that going to be for her? How much trouble are his lawyers likely to be? This is one thing I haven't been able to research for myself and thought maybe some of you would know. My feeling is that if he were poor and destined for an orphanage, there would be no problem, but since he's wealthy and more likely to have a guardian and spend his time in boarding schools . . . how hard will it be for my main character to convince his lawyers that she is a good choice? Legally, I mean. How many legal obstacles? How do they compare to the legal labyrinth we have for adoptions now? Any help you can give would be appreciated. This is for the state of New Jersey, too, if that makes a difference. (I posted this in the General board, too, then noticed this one, where it seemed to be a better fit.) Thank you! Deb