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, consent is signed no earlier than 24 hours after birth and is irrevocable upon signing.
- 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, and consent is irrevocable upon signing.
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.