Pre-Adoption Information
in California

When considering adoption, foster care or guardianship, reach out to agencies in California, ideally near where you live, to ask questions and learn more about their process. Each type of adoption is handled differently so if you want to consider all options, you should reach out to all kinds of agencies using the search tool CAAA hosts.

Here are a few questions you can consider asking if you are considering adopting

• Is there an age requirement? Financial requirement?
• Does the agency work with LGBTQ+ parents? Families who already have children? Single parents? Parents of all races?
• Who is the child the agency typically serves? Age? Race? Circumstance?
• Does the agency provide education both pre- and post- placement?
• Is it required that I have an open adoption (ongoing contact with the adopted child’s first parents?

Here are a few questions you can consider asking if you are considering placement of your child for adoption. You can also check out more information about your rights here: Planned Parenthood

• Can I choose the adoptive family? Can I meet the adoptive family?
• Can I see my child after birth? After placement?
• Can you help me if my child is already born?
• What are my rights if I change my mind about placement?
• Who needs to know if I place my child for adoption besides me?