A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
The Adoption Process: Step-by-Step
Domestic infant adoption is a journey of 6 core steps and 12 to 24 months. Here's how it works, from first call to finalization, for both birth mothers and adoptive families.
- 01
Start a Conversation
A free intake call to ask questions, share your story, and learn about next steps. Confidential, no obligation.
- 02
Create a Plan
Birth mothers: shape an adoption plan with a counselor. Families: complete an application and home study.
- 03
Match
Birth mothers choose an adoptive family from home-study-approved profiles. Typical wait for families: 9 to 18 months.
- 04
Prepare for Placement
Hospital plan, legal counsel for birth mother, ICPC coordination for out-of-state placements.
- 05
Placement and Consent
The baby transitions to the adoptive family. In Utah, a birth mother may not sign consent or relinquishment until at least 24 hours after the child's birth. After signing, a birth parent has 72 hours to revoke it, unless that revocation period is waived in writing.
- 06
Post-Placement and Finalization
Post-placement visits (typically 3 to 6 months). Finalization hearing in court. In Utah, typically within 6 months of placement.
Typical Timeline
Total: 12 to 24 months from first call to placement. Home study: 3 to 6 months. Average wait after a profile is active: 9 to 18 months. Finalization hearing typically 3 to 6 months after placement, depending on state law.
For Birth Mothers
See the process from the birth mother's perspective, 5 steps, confidential, free, no obligation.
Birth Mother Process →For Hopeful Adoptive Families
The 7-step adoption process for adoptive families, from application to finalization.
Adoptive Family Process →Choose an Agency You Can Trust to Walk With You
The process looks straightforward on paper. What actually matters is the agency walking beside you. A free, confidential conversation is the best way to see if we are the right fit.
- 4.8★
- Among the top-rated adoption agencies in the U.S., with 129 verified reviews.
- Since 1993
- More than 2,500+ adoptions. Trusted by birth moms and adoptive families for 30+ years.
- By People Who Lived It
- Founded by an adoptive mother. Many on our team are adoptive parents or adoptees themselves.
- Free For Birth Moms
- Independent legal counsel, medical coordination, and counseling before and after placement. At no cost, as allowed by state law.
Adoption Process FAQ
How long does the adoption process take?+
Most domestic infant adoptions take 12 to 24 months from first application to placement. Home study: typically 3 to 6 months. Average wait after profile is active: 9 to 18 months.
What's the difference between placement and finalization?+
Placement is when the baby joins the adoptive family, usually at the hospital. Finalization is the court hearing where the adoption becomes legal and final, typically 3 to 6 months after placement, depending on state law.
What does 'consent' mean in adoption?+
Consent (sometimes called 'relinquishment') is the birth parent's voluntary legal agreement to the adoption. Utah requires at least 24 hours after birth before consent can be signed. After signing, a birth parent generally has 72 hours to revoke it, unless that revocation period is waived in writing.
Can we meet the birth mother before placement?+
Yes, most modern adoptions include pre-placement meetings between birth mothers and adoptive families. Our counselors facilitate these meetings.