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Though it’s all worth it in the end, adoption is a complicated and stressful process for every family. Military families often have additional questions about adoption and wonder if they’re even eligible to adopt. But while those on active duty face unique challenges, they can also access additional resources because the military supports its members’ choice to adopt. Active service members can receive financial support from the Department of Defense (DOD) when they adopt, with a maximum reimbursement of $2,000 per child plus health care costs. These funds are available for adoption and placement fees, court costs, medical expenses for the infant and birth mother, and counseling for birth parents. Notably, the DOD will not cover travel expenses associated with adoption. However, military families must meet specific requirements to receive reimbursement. The military member must have been actively enlisted for 180 days and still be on active duty when they finalize the adoption and file the reimbursement paperwork. Further, service members must adopt from an authorized adoption agency or another state-sponsored source, and finalization must occur in a U.S. court. Additionally, service members eligible for reimbursement are legally permitted to receive up to 21 days of leave from their commander. The DOD intends this time for the parent to bond with their child post-adoption. But if you are a dual military family, you can only claim leave and reimbursement benefits once. Many military families face extra hurdles in the home study portion of the adoption process. Those who have been stationed in multiple states will likely face additional background checks. Further, home studies take several months, and the family may need to start over if they receive orders to relocate during the study. Adoption agencies often also have concerns about the child’s stability. Prospective adoptive parents should consider family support and other means to create a stable home environment despite the unpredictability of a military career. Every state has its own adoption laws, and families face additional regulations when they adopt a child from a different state or country. If you’re ready to embark on an adoption journey, seek an experienced family law attorney who can guide you. Professional counsel can streamline the process and help ensure you receive maximum benefits for your family. Call Pacific Northwest Family Law at 564-212-2733 to schedule a consultation today. ADOPTING ON ACTIVE DUTY What Military Families Should Know
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Whether you are a residential parent looking to move or a parent who has received a relocation notice from your ex, you should promptly obtain guidance from a Washington family law attorney. The CRA has stringent rules that relocating parents must follow. Meanwhile, parents who don’t want their children to move have limited time to act and make an argument in their favor. Pacific Northwest Family Law has experience with these cases and can help. Call us at 564-212-2733 so we can learn more about your case and help you secure the best outcome.
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