Adoption For Non-Traditional Families

Is it more difficult to adopt if I'm not married?

Fortunately, in this day and age, it is much less difficult to adopt if you're not married than it was, twenty or thirty years ago. Adoption policies have changed and prejudices have been greatly reduced. In fact, the greatest growing number of adoptions are coming from single parents.

What issues should a single parent consider before adopting a child?

A single parent who is looking at adoption should make sure that they have a support network of family and friends: people who can help them with everything from transportation to emotional support to advice. A single person who's adopting also should consider the impact that adoption may have on their broad spectrum of relationships. A single parent also wants to make sure that they have the flexibility in their workplace that will enable them to meet the sometimes unpredictable needs of the child.

Are same sex couples allowed to adopt?

The rights of same sex couples to adopt really is a state matter. There is currently one state that specifically prohibits same sex adoptions, but the laws do change over time, so it's most important for same sex couples to look at the adoption laws of their particular state.

Can same sex couples adopt internationally?

There are some countries from which a same sex couple can adopt internationally. There are many others where they cannot. The rules that are promulgated by the countries change all the time. It is important before you are using an international adoption to look at the specific rules for same sex adoption that the country is currently governed by.