This publication sets forth the various types and circumstances of adoption, the adoption process, and the state and federal laws governing adoption. Consent requirements and the rights of putative fathers are also examined, as are the pros and cons of open adoptions, i.e., where contact with the birth family is maintained. The title discusses the costs and tax benefits of adoption, and the availability of assistance for special-needs children. Post-adoption considerations, such as access to birth records and inheritance issues are also addressed, along with an overview of international adoption. With appendixes featuring applicable statutes, forms, resource directories, state summaries for comparison, and other pertinent information.
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