Adoption is an exciting, life-changing journey, but when a child and adoptive family are located in different states, the process can become more complicated. Before a child can legally be placed across state lines, families may need to comply with the Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC).
If you’re considering an interstate adoption, understanding the ICPC process before placement can help you know what to expect and avoid unexpected delays along the way.
What Is the ICPC?
The Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children is an agreement among states designed to help ensure that children being placed across state lines are placed in safe, appropriate homes.
In an interstate adoption, this generally means that both the child’s sending state and the adoptive family’s receiving state must review and approve the placement before the child can legally move across state lines for the placement.
For adoptive families, one of the most important things to understand is that placement cannot simply move forward because everyone involved has agreed to the adoption. The required ICPC approvals must first be obtained when the Compact applies.
How Does the Interstate Adoption Process Work in Tennessee?
Although every adoption is different, the ICPC process generally involves several steps.
First, the appropriate documents and information regarding the proposed placement are prepared and submitted for review. The sending state’s ICPC office reviews the placement request and, when appropriate, forwards it to the receiving state.
The receiving state then reviews the proposed placement, including required information about the prospective adoptive family and their home. Once the receiving state approves the placement, that approval is communicated back through the ICPC process.
Families pursuing an interstate adoption in Tennessee should understand that the ICPC process may affect when a child can legally cross state lines for placement. Only after the necessary approvals are received can the child generally be placed across state lines.
Because two states are involved, the timeline may be different from an adoption that takes place entirely within Tennessee. Families should be prepared for some waiting while the required agencies review and process the placement.
Why Working With an Adoption Attorney Matters
Interstate adoptions involve more than coordinating travel between two states. Families may be navigating the laws of multiple jurisdictions, ICPC requirements, home study documentation, consent requirements, court filings, and important deadlines.
A mistake or missing document can potentially delay the process at a time when families are eager to bring their child home.
Working with an attorney experienced in adoption matters can help you understand which requirements apply to your situation, coordinate with the other individuals and professionals involved, and guide you through the legal steps necessary to complete the adoption.
Planning an Interstate Adoption in Tennessee?
If you are adopting a child from another state, or you live outside Tennessee and your adoption involves a child in Tennessee, it’s important to understand the legal requirements before making plans for placement or travel.
At Oldfield Law Tennessee, we help families navigate adoption matters, including the additional legal and procedural considerations that can arise when an adoption crosses state lines.
Have questions about an interstate adoption or the ICPC process? Call Oldfield Law Tennessee at (865) 470-4105 to discuss your situation and learn more about how our family law team can help.
This information is provided for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Every adoption is different, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.