Full question:
My wife and I live in California. We have been selected by a birth parent for the process of independent adoption. We are aware of the interview and investigation process conducted by the agencies of independent adoption. We would like to know under what grounds the agency can reject the final approval for adoption?
- Category: Adoption
- Subcategory: Independent Adoption
- Date:
- State: California
Answer:
In California, adoption agencies must conduct interviews and investigations before granting final approval for an adoption. According to California Family Code § 8811, an agency cannot approve an adoptive placement if the prospective adoptive parent or any adult living in the home has:
- A felony conviction for child abuse or neglect, spousal abuse, crimes against a child (including child pornography), or violent crimes (such as rape, sexual assault, or homicide). This does not include physical assault or battery.
- A felony conviction within the last five years for physical assault, battery, or drug- or alcohol-related offenses.
Thus, if you or any adult in your home has such convictions, the agency may deny final approval for the adoption.
This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.