Adoption is a common and accessible way to expand your family and provide a loving, stable home for a child or youth. While it can be a very exciting and positive process, there are a few major factors to consider as you work towards adopting a new member of your family.
To gain a more comprehensive overview and discuss the particulars of your case, contact us at Verhaeghe Law Office to schedule a consultation with one of our dedicated family lawyers.
Different Types of Adoptions in Canada
In Canada, there are five different types of adoption:
- Adopting through a welfare system (public);
- Adopting a child in another country (international);
- Adopting through an agency (private);
- Adopting a stepchild;
- Adopting a birth relative (known as kinship adoption).
Every province outlines adoption differently. In Alberta, prospective parents can adopt through government care. When children are unable to live with their biological families, they are placed in the permanent care of Alberta Children and Family Services. These children may have particular needs and requirements – for more information about taking this adoption route, you can read this information sheet.
Private adoption may involve adopting a stepchild or relative, adopting through a private direct placement, or adopting through a licensed private adoption agency. Albertans can also apply to adopt a child who lives in another country. International adoption has an added level of complexity, as regulations and procedures differ between countries. It may be helpful to connect with an Edmonton family lawyer for more information about the international adoption process.
Eligibility for Adoption in Canada
In Alberta, adoption is provincially regulated under the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act. It states that to adopt within Alberta, you must reside within the province at the time of application, approval, and placement. You must be at least 18 years old and demonstrate financial and domestic stability. You must also be physically and mentally capable of parenting an adoptive child. A child’s biological parents or legal guardians must provide consent unless these rights are terminated by a court.
If you believe you are ready to adopt, you can begin with the application process. Adoption requires extensive documentation and evidence that proves it is in the child’s best interests to join your family. You and your household will undergo assessments to confirm your domestic stability and suitability. This may include thorough background checks, home studies, and more.
Difference Between Public and Private Adoption Agencies
If you are adopting publicly in Alberta, you will be working with Alberta Children and Family Services. At a public agency, the focus is on the safety and welfare of the children – meaning that everything may be more tightly controlled. The cost to adopt is usually lower or non-existent, though wait times can be lengthy, especially if you are seeking a healthy newborn.
Private adoption agencies are similar in many ways to public ones, with a few exceptions. For example, wait times for children can be shorter, but more costly.
Call or Email Verhaege Law Office to Schedule a Consultation Today
While it can be a lengthy and complicated process, adoption has the potential to be a wonderfully life-altering event. That being said, navigating adoption in Alberta requires a thorough comprehension of many regulations, procedures, and requirements.
To ensure that your adoption goes as smoothly as possible, you may want to contact our lawyers at Verhaeghe Law Office. Schedule a consultation with our family lawyers to begin this exciting journey today.
Please note, this article is intended as a general overview on the subject of family law and is not intended to be legal advice. If you are seeking legal advice, please consult with an Alberta family lawyer.
