In this course we will cover the legal process parents need to know when considering a domestic infant adoption. The instructor is James Fletcher Thompson, a South Carolina attorney with extensive experience in adoption and assisted reproductive technology. He is a frequent lecturer throughout the country on adoption and child welfare issues, and he is the author of a book published by the South Carolina Bar entitled South Carolina Adoption Law and Practice. He has received national and state recognition for his service on behalf of children and adoptive families. He also serves on the Board of Creating a Family.

This course covers the following learning objectives:

  • Identify which legal entity governs domestic infant adoption in the US.
  • List three significant risks for adoptive parents to be aware of.
  • Explain the rights of the expectant birth parents compared to the rights of the adoptive parents during the adoption process.
  • Define a post-adoption contract agreement (PACA).


Outline for Legal Process of Adoption.pdf

*This course includes a 1-hour conversational audio lesson, a 10-question quiz, and a certificate of completion with the successful completion of the quiz at 80%. 

Your course will remain active for 180 days from purchase date.

This course is included in the following state packages.

See links for how it aligns with each state's regulatory requirements.

Illinois Domestic Infant Adoption
 Important Information for agencies on Illinois Adoption Requirements.
Louisiana Domestic Infant Adoption
 Important Information for agencies on Louisiana Adoption Requirements.
Nebraska Domestic Infant Adoption
 Important Information for agencies on Nebraska Adoption Requirements.
Virginia Domestic Adoption Important information for agencies on Virginia's core competencies.

For information specific to your state, go to the Child Welfare Information Gateway State Search site to find information on each state's requirements on background checks, consent to adoption, home study requirements, post-adoption contact agreements, adoption expense regulations, use of advertising, and who may adopt or place a child for adoption.

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