Frequently Asked Questions

What does it cost?
A fee schedule will be included in your inquiry packet. The price of the home study and placement fees of the child will cost $17,850. However a family should plan on additional potential cost that can be explained to you in more detail.

How long will I wait?
The agency has an average wait time of 18 months to 2 years. However, there are no guarantees so wait times vary greatly.

Can I work with an additional placement agency?
Yes, some families decide to work with a second placement agency, as long as both agencies are aware.

Can the birth parents of the baby change their mind?
Yes, after the child is born the birth parents can not sign consent to the adoption for 72 hours. After the consent is signed they then have 30 additional days to change their mind.

What if the father of the baby is unknown?
We must search for the unknown father for at least a 4 month period, before a family can proceed with the adoption court plans.

How long does it take to finalize an adoption?
We have estimated 6 to 14 months.

After the 30 day period can either parent still change their mind?
If either parent has not signed the consent forms, they can contest the adoption. They must then go to court and and prove that they can parent and explain why they did not take immediate custody of the child. There are many different scenarios and every case can be different. The agency will support the family and seek legal advice for any and all contested cases.

If you are considering adoption or have any additional questions, please contact Heather O’Neill, MSW, Private Adoption Supervisor at hnoneill@families4kids.org or 717-492-9338.