This section provides information to help you find a public or private adoption agency, adoption service provider, or attorney that can guide you through the adoption process. Public and licensed private agencies are required to meet State standards and have more oversight to ensure quality services. Unlicensed agencies and facilitators often do not have the same State oversight; consequently, there may be more financial, legal and emotional risk for expectant parents and birth families using unlicensed services.
American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Describes the national membership organization of attorneys with expertise in adoption. The site includes a directory of adoption attorneys in all 50 States.
American Bar Association
Lists lawyers by location and offers other helpful information.
| Author(s) | Child Welfare Information Gateway |
| Availability | View |
| Year Published | 2004 |
National Foster Care and Adoption Directory
Child Welfare Information Gateway
Provides contact information for private and public adoption agencies in every State and U.S. Territory. Grouped results note languages spoken by agency staff.
Reshaping Child Welfare in the United States: Lawyers as Partners in Prevention
Milner (2018)
American Bar Association
Recognizes that child welfare goes beyond the agencies alone. It includes many organizations and individuals, including the legal and judicial community.
Retaining an Attorney
American Academy of Adoption Attorneys
Provides tips for choosing an adoption attorney.