International Adoption FAQs

Which is better to work with, attorney, adoption agency or facilitator?

Each can have its advantages and disadvantages. In most cases it depends upon your comfort level. Attorneys and agencies are licensed by the state in which they work. Facilitators are not licensed. Complaints against an attorney can be directed at the Missouri Bar. Complaints against an adoption agency can be directed at the state licensing office. Agencies and attorneys are usually required to maintain malpractice insurance. There are, however, no government agencies that regulate facilitators. In working with any of the above you should always use the prudent person test. What would a reasonable and prudent person do under these circumstances? Check out references, and request a printed schedule of all expenses.

Most adoption agencies operate as a not for profit or non-profit, what does that mean?

A non profit or not for profit corporation, whether it is an adoption agency or other business, simply means that the agency does not pay local, state or federal income taxes. Some agencies use the terms not for profit to imply that they are in some way humanitarian but in reality operate as a business just as any other. There are agencies that provide assistance to orphanages, unwed mothers, and children that are not adoptable.

Should we get a signed contract?

Absolutely. Do not give any money to an attorney, agency, or facilitator without a signed contract that states with particularity the services that are provided. You should also get a detailed breakdown of all fees and when they are to be paid.

How do we know if we qualify to adopt?

Each country has its own guidelines for the qualifications of adoptive parents. You can verify this with the adoption professional you have selected. Keep in mind that some agencies have their own requirements independent of the country. Some agencies, for example, only accept families of a particular faith.

Should we file the I-600A before we complete the homestudy?

Yes. In most states the family can file the I-600A application with the birth certificate, marriage license and divorce decrees if applicable. The home study can be filed when completed with most INS offices.

What is an IR-3 and an IR-4 visa?

An IR-3 Visa is given to a child who has been adopted abroad by the family and that family personally saw the child prior to or during the adoption process. An IR-4 Visa is given to children who are coming to the United States for the purpose of adoption. In these cases the families do not have a final adoption decree or they did not personally see the child prior to the adoption.

How will the Inter-Country Adoption Act of 2000 affect adoptions?

The act will require that all agencies register with the federal government before that agency or professional can provide international adoption services in other countries that have ratified the Hague Convention on Inter-Country Adoption. There are some exceptions, but most agencies and professionals will be required to register. Families may be required to submit to a certain period of counseling prior to the placement of a child.

Can our adoption agency guarantee the health of the child?

No one can guarantee the health of the child. You should expect as much information as is available at the time. The medical information should be translated and consists of a birth certificate, medical exam, and lab work. It may be necessary to get the opinion of a specialist if the original medical information shows a problem. Have your doctor review the medical information to obtain a second opinion.

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International Adoptions, Ltd.
307 Henry Street, Suite 211
Alton, Illinois 62002

phone: (618) 462-4477
fax: (618) 462-8585
click here to email us

International
Adoptions, Ltd.
307 Henry Street,
Suite 211
Alton, IL 62002

phone: (618) 462-4477
fax: (618) 462-8585
email us now

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Serving the Southern Illinois (IL) and St. Louis, Missouri (MO) areas for all International Guatemalan Adoptions.

John D. Stobbs, II
ATTORNEY AT LAW
learn more about John

Rosario Stobbs
INTER-COUNTRY COORDINATOR
learn more about Rosario