Step 1. Initial Contact
When you call (800) DO-ADOPT, or e-mail the Adoption Resource Exchange of Virginia, you have taken the first step in the adoption process. After a few general questions, you may be referred to a local department of social services, or to a private child placing agency for orientation.

Step 2. Orientation
You will be invited to a meeting to learn more about the types of children waiting for adoptive families and about the adoption process. This may be a group meeting with other families who are interested in adoption, or may be an individual meeting with the agency social worker. Feel free to ask questions. This is a time for you to get some of your questions answered.

Step 3. Application
To apply for adoption services, you must complete an application. You may request the application in person, by telephone or by mail. Application forms vary. However, most ask questions about income, health and family history. Do not be put off by the personal questions on the application. Complete it, sign it and return it to the agency. The social worker will explain during the home study how the information you provided will help to determine the kind of child that will fit best in your family.

Step 4. Home Study
During the home study, you will talk about your reasons for wanting to adopt and the type of child your family can best parent. The social worker will talk about the special demands of parenting an adopted child. All members of your family will be involved. The home study will be completed through a series of meetings - individual or group. At the conclusion of the home study, you and the social worker will decide whether you are ready to adopt and what type of child you can best parent. Remember, the social worker is not looking for families without problems. The worker is looking for families who have successfully coped with life experiences.

Step 5. Selection
The social worker will show you pictures of available children and tell you about each child. There are also listings of special needs children available on the Internet. When you find a child you are interested in, you and the agency together will consider whether your family may be right for this child. Deciding against adopting a particular child will not prevent you from being considered for other children.

Step 6. Placement
The placement process starts with visits between the child and family. The number of visits before actual placement depends on the child's ability to move into a new situation. When the social worker feels that the child is ready to move and that the family is ready to receive the child, arrangements are made for placement in the adoptive home.

Step 7. Supervision (Post Placement)
After the child is placed in your home, the social worker will visit you at least three times. The visits are to help you and the child adjust to this new situation. It helps you to assume your new role as a parent. This is the time to talk with the worker about any concerns you may have. Initial adjustment concerns are to be expected. Talk about them early on; waiting too long may cause problems later. Virginia law requires the child to live in your home a minimum of six months and be visited at least three times (or more), before the adoption can be finalized.

Step 8. Legal Procedures and Finalization
To finalize the adoption, it is best to get an attorney. The attorney will file a petition for adoption with the court. The court will request a report from the agency, and the judge enters the final order of adoption.