Do you know how the legal process of adoption works? How do you get an original birth certificate? How do you get a social security number for your adopted child? In this course, we talk with Brinton Wright, an adoption attorney and Fellow in the Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys about the legal process of domestic adoption.

This course covers the following learning objectives:

  • List the different types of adoption.
  • Explain the difference between voluntary and involuntary termination of parental rights.
  • Explain what is meant by a "legal risk" adoption.
  • Explain what is meant by open adoption.


Outline for Legal Process in Domestic 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 aligns with the following regulatory requirements.

Virginia Compliance

22VAC40-131-210.A.7

22VAC40-131-210.A.11

22VAC40-131-210.A.19

22VAC40-131-210.A.20 



*Important Information for agencies on Virginia core competencies.


Illinois Licensing Standard §401.520

*Important Information for agencies on Illinois Adoption Requirements.


Nebraska Licensing Requirement 005.16(D)(i)(8)

*Important Information for agencies on Nebraska Adoption Requirements.

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.