Are you thinking about adoption? Take these tips to heart

You may be thinking about adoption for any number of reasons. Perhaps you have always wanted children and you cannot have them. Perhaps you have a heart for children without families and you want to do what you can to help at least one.

Adopting a child is a big step in your life. Keep these tips in mind:

• Decide on the age range. Some people only want to adopt infants, raising them practically from the day they are born. Others are open to adopting older children. There is no right or wrong preference, but you need to know what you want in advance.
• Think about the birth parents and their involvement. Do you want them to stay in the child’s life? Would you prefer that the child doesn’t know their biological parents?
• Start learning from others. You may want to read books or listen to podcasts. If you know people who have adopted, talk to them. Join groups online for other parents in your position. The more you know, the better. You can form accurate expectations and plan for the future. Let others’ experiences guide you.
• Look into the financial side. Adoption is not cheap. While a birth may be covered by your health insurance, your adoption may have to come out of your own pocket. It is important to make a financial plan leading up to the adoption and another one to adjust your budget after the child begins living with you.

As you move forward with this process, make sure you know exactly how it works and what legal steps you will need to take. An experienced California family law attorney can assist you.