Interstate Adoptions: Crossing State Lines To Adopt Children From Other States
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Adoptions are exciting opportunities for families to grow. When your adoption crosses state lines, the extra paperwork and compliance matters can be overwhelming. With the help of our founding attorney, Christina T. Sherman, you can bring the joy of adoption back to the forefront. At Christina T. Sherman, PLLC, in Pierce County. Washington, we make the legal obstacles easier to understand, letting you focus on the best interests of your new addition.
Helping Families Ensure Interstate Compliance
The Interstate Compact for the Placement of Children (ICPC) can be one of the largest speed bumps for growing families. The ICPC governs all interstate adoptions in the U.S. and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is essential that you have an attorney who specializes in adoption to handle ICPC cases.
Your ICPC paperwork must be approved in both the child’s birth state and your state of residence before you can bring your child home. Processing the forms can take up to seven to 10 business days, so planning ahead is crucial.
Your home study must be complete and up to date for your ICPC forms to be approved. An incomplete or out-of-complement home study with both states’ requirements can significantly delay the adoption.
What Is The Academy Of Adoption And Assisted Reproduction Attorneys
The Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA) is an organization that credentialed attorneys who uphold the standards of ethical practices for legal adoption and assisted reproduction. It is difficult to qualify for AAAA credentials. Our attorney, Christina Sherman, is credentialed through the AAAA.
Most family law attorneys simply do not have the background to understand how to navigate an ICPC adoption, which can result in the adoption process getting held up or even blocked in other states. As a credentialed member of the AAAA, our adoption attorney has more than 20 years of experience and has dedicated her legal practice to adoption. She has guided countless families through the adoption process, including interstate adoptions, since founding her practice. Ms. Sherman takes pride in resolving legal situations for adoptive families with dedication and professionalism.
Frequently Asked Questions About Interstate Adoptions
Below are answers to common questions about the interstate adoption process and ICPC compliance requirements.
How long does it typically take to complete an interstate adoption?
Interstate adoptions generally take longer than in-state adoptions due to additional regulatory requirements and coordination between multiple states. The timeline can range from six months to over a year, depending on various factors, including the complexity of your case, the efficiency of both states’ agencies and whether all paperwork is properly completed from the start.
The ICPC approval process alone typically takes seven to 10 business days once all required documentation is submitted to both the sending and receiving states. However, preparing the necessary paperwork, completing home studies and obtaining all required clearances can add several months to the overall timeline.
How can I ensure my home study meets both states’ requirements?
Each state has specific home study requirements to meet for ICPC approval. Working with a qualified social worker who understands interstate adoption requirements is crucial for creating a compliant home study. Your home study must be current, typically completed within six to 12 months of your adoption filing, and include all documentation required by both states.
Common home study components include background checks, financial statements, medical clearances, references and detailed interviews about your family’s readiness for adoption. Some states have additional requirements, such as specific training courses or additional background screening.
What should I do if my ICPC paperwork is delayed or denied?
If your ICPC paperwork experiences delays, your attorney should immediately contact both states’ ICPC offices to identify the specific issues causing the holdup. Common reasons for delays include incomplete documentation, missing signatures, outdated home studies or failure to meet specific state requirements. When paperwork is denied, you typically have the opportunity to address the stated deficiencies and resubmit your application.
What are the potential challenges and delays in an interstate adoption?
Interstate adoptions face unique challenges, including varying state laws, different processing times between states and complex coordination requirements. Birth parent consent laws may also differ between states, which can affect timing and procedures. Some states have mandatory waiting periods or additional court hearings that can further extend the process.
Communication delays between state agencies, incomplete paperwork submissions and changes in circumstances during the process can all cause significant delays. An AAAA-credentialed attorney who understands these potential pitfalls can help families navigate challenges more effectively.
Consult An AAAA Credentialed Interstate Adoption Lawyer
Our interstate adoption lawyer is available for consultation appointments. To schedule an initial consultation, contact our office by sending us a message through our website form. You can also schedule an appointment by calling 253-466-2775.