Attorney General's News Release

November 6, 2008

Attorney General Nixon marks National Adoption Month, offers publication for prospective parents

November is National Adoption Month, and Attorney General Jay Nixon has a publication available for parents considering adopting a child. The brochure, Welcome Home, describes the legal issues involved with adoption, whether it's domestic, foster care, stepparent or international.

"Thousands of children in Missouri are waiting to be taken into a loving home, but the adoption process can be complex and confusing," Nixon said. "Welcome Home is a consumer-friendly publication that can help clear up misconceptions and make adoption less intimidating."

All types of adoptions have pro and cons, and some are more expensive than others. There are state and federal laws involved, as well financial assistance available to some families. Welcome Home explains all this, and Nixon offers further information and legal forms on his Web site.

One section of the publication is dedicated to birthparents and the impact of adoption on them. It explains the legal rights of birthmothers and birthfathers in Missouri and lists resources available for support.

Welcome Home was a cooperative effort by Nixon's office and experts in the field of adoption, including family law attorneys, adoption agencies, child advocates and adoptive parents.

The publication is available for free to consumers who call the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-392-8222 or visit his Web site at ago.mo.gov.