Adoption through Utah Foster Care
All children deserve a permanent home. Adoption services are used by the Utah Division of Child and Family Services ( DCFS ) when children in state custody cannot return to their original home. Children may be adopted by relatives, families who fostered them, or other families seeking to add a new family member. Finding a permanent and loving home where the child can be safe and thrive should always be DCFS’ goal.
If you are thinking about becoming a Foster Care parent, we strongly encourage you to give our office a call. We would be happy to meet with you and answer questions you might have as it pertains to adopting children through Foster Care.
The Juvenile Court is responsible for those cases involving the removal of a child from his/her parents. Once the Court determines that remove is appropriate, DCFS is then responsible for placing the child with a Foster Care family. Throughout this process DCFS is represented by an assistant attorney general, the child is represented by an appointed guardian ad litem ( GAL ), and you, the Foster Parents, are not represented at all.
We strongly encourage you, prior to becoming Foster Parents, to establish a relationship with our office, and insure that your questions are answered. Call us now and schedule up a free consultation.
If you are already a Foster Parent and hoping to adopt, we again strongly encourage you to make an appointment for a free consultation, as you undoubtedly have many questions.
By having your own attorney early on, you will be letting DCFS and the GAL know that you are serious about adopting the child that has been placed with you.
Adoption Assistance
Adopted children may qualify for adoption assistance until they are 18 years old.
You may even qualify to have the State reimburse you for your attorney fees and court costs that you incurred in adopting your foster child.
The goal is to ensure a successful experience for both the child and the family.
Additional Resources
For information on becoming a foster parent, see the Utah Foster Care Foundation at http://www.utahfostercare.org/. Individuals who wish to adopt children in state care must first become licensed foster parents.
Information is also available from the Child Welfare Gateway at www.childwelfare.gov/adoption.
Additional information on adoptions and children waiting to be adopted is available at The Adoption Exchange, https://www.utdcfsadopt.org/index.shtml. The Exchange provides general information on how to adopt a child, how to begin, costs, and chances for placement. The Exchange also offers a monthly class called Adoption Questions.
Information on licensed adoption agencies is available at http://www.hslic.utah.gov/adoption.htm.
For results of a 2008 needs assessment survey for post-adoption supports, click here.