Adoption Attorneys in Rhode Island

Adding a child to your family is an exciting time. Whether you are a step parent desiring to adopt your step child, a foster family wanting to adopt your foster child, or you are looking to adopt a family member, we can help you navigate the legal process to make your family complete.

Each adoption is unique, but all prospective adoptive parents are required to complete a home study with DCYF. The court automatically refers each adoption to DCYF, and a DCYF social worker will coordinate with the adoptive parent(s) to complete the home study. All adoptive parents will have to answer a questionnaire regarding their upbringing and parenting style, complete a financial disclosures form, have their primary care physician complete a health questionnaire, and obtain three letters of recommendation (only one may be from a family member). Additionally, all persons living in the home over the age of 18 must complete a national fingerprint background check. The assigned social worker will visit your home on at least two separate occasions. When they have received and reviewed all of the required documentation, the social worker will submit a written report, known as the home study, to the court.

Every adoption has its own distinctive complexities. If you have any questions about adoptions in Rhode Island, please call The Law Offices of Howe & Garside to speak with one of our experienced adoption attorneys.