where to start

[newtotheprocess]

What is the name of your state? Arkansas We are just getting into the process of adopting through an acquaintance. However we do not know much about where to start. This would be a person to person adoption using our own attorney no agencies. Do we need to get a homestudy if she has already chosen us? At this time our attorney is out of town and we can't consult with him. On a different matter, the father has not been informed of this child's birth but they have another child and he has not been involved with her. They are not married, does he need to be informed. We understand that we need to seek legal representation but are just anxious to find out our options while he is out of town.

 

[momofrose]

YES you need a home study and I would get crackin on that right now as it takes a while between fingerprinting and CARI (Child Abuse Registry)...
I am sure your attorney will fill you in on exactly what you need to (and fast!)
Yes The birth father MUST be informed so he may exercise his parental rights if he chooses to do so.

It can be complicated so try and take a deep breath and hopefully at the end you will have a little baby!!
Good Luck!!
D