Ask AF: Eligible to Adopt?

Not everyone's past is squeaky clean. Here, an expert explains how a past misdemeanor may play a role in your adoption journey.

Q: My husband has a Class C misdemeanor, which was placed on his record when he was 18. Will this criminal history prevent us from adopting?

 

A: Misdemeanors stemming from youthful indiscretions usually aren’t held against prospective adopters in the U.S., although a social worker will want to know if your husband’s past behavior is truly past. If the misdemeanor on your husband’s record was a DUI, for instance, she’ll ask if he went through a rehabilitation program, and what his current drinking habits are.

Increasingly, as many sending countries tighten their adoption guidelines, even a minor misdemeanor may pose a problem. Consult your adoption agency if you’re pursuing an international adoption.



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Adoption Agencies

Adoption Choice Inc.
City
Green Bay
WI
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U.S. Newborn, U.S. Foster, International
Family & Children’s Agency
City
Norwalk
CT
Adoption Routes/Programs
U.S. Newborn, International
ADOPTIONS FROM THE HEART
City
Wynnewood
PA
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U.S. Newborn
City
La Crosse
WI
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U.S. Newborn, International
Agape Adoptions
City
Sumner
WA
Adoption Routes/Programs
International, Special Needs/Waiting Child
City
Evanston
IL
Adoption Routes/Programs
U.S. Newborn, International, Special Needs/Waiting Child

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