There are many children of all ages waiting to be adopted from the foster care system. The Law Office of Faith Getz Rousso, P.C. can you guide you through the process from application as a foster parent to finalization of adoption. We recognize that foster parents are selfless &  dedicated with a huge heart! Foster parents step into the shoes of a parent pending reunification with the child's biological family. Adopting a child in foster care will provide you with all of the same rights and responsibilities that a biological parent would have. 

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How are children placed in foster care? 

If Family Court finds that a child is not safe in their home, due to neglect or abuse, child may be removed from their home and placed in foster care to avoid imminent risk to the child's life or health.  The Agency will try to place the child with a family member or friend that has been certified as a foster parent. If there isn't a family member who wishes to care for the child, then certified foster parents will be considered.

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How do I become a foster parent? 

In the State of New York, you must contact either the foster care Agency in the County where you reside to complete an application. Once the agency approves your application, foster parent(s) must complete a 30 hour Model Approach to Partnerships and Parenting (MAPP) training.  In addition to the training, you will meet with a social worker, have criminal and child abuse clearances, and medical clearances to be an approved foster parent home. 

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What is a permanency hearing?

The Court in New York State is required to schedule a permanency hearing every 6 months while the child is care. The Law Office of Faith Getz Rousso, P.C. can represent foster parents at the permanency hearings at the discretion of the Judge (prior to 1 year in placement), and after the child has been in care for at least one (1) year, at each permanency hearing and court conference.

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When can a foster parent adopt the child in their care?

If the child is in foster care for 15 out of the most recent 22 months, the Agency may be required to file a termination of parental rights (TPR).  After the biological parent's rights are terminated, a foster parent may file an Adoption petition.

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When do I retain an attorney in foster care adoption? 

In the State of New York, you have may have an attorney accompany you to Court after the child is in your home for one (1) year. Your attorney can assist in creating a plan for contact after the adoption is finalized. Foster parents must have representation to prepare and file the Petition for adoption and supporting documents. Your attorney will appear in Court at the finalization of your adoption.

The Department of Social Services (DSS) or Administration for Children's Services (ACS) provides a subsidy for your legal representation.