Same-Sex Couple Adoption in Oklahoma FAQ
If you are a same-sex couple looking to adopt a child in Oklahoma, you probably have a number of questions about what the adoption process may look like for your family. While every adoption arrangement is unique, at Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, we understand that you and your partner may have some special concerns throughout your adoption journey, and we are here to work with you regardless of your family arrangement.
As a same-sex couple navigating the adoption process, we understand that there are many important questions. At Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, our adoption counselors and caseworkers are here to help you find answers at any point of your adoption process, whether you are in a same-sex relationship or not.
- Can Same-Sex Couples Adopt in Oklahoma?
Yes! As a same-sex couple in Oklahoma, you and your partner are completely free to pursue adoption. In fact, you may even adopt a child as a single parent if you identify as LGBT and are not currently in a relationship. At Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, we welcome LGBT adoptive families from all walks of life, whether you are in a relationship or plan to be a single parent.
If you decide to pursue adoption as a same-sex couple in Oklahoma, it is important to know that our Oklahoma Adoption Center does require adoptive parents to be married for at least a year prior to applying for adoption with our agency. If you and your partner are not legally married or are looking to adopt a child as a single parent, you can pursue adoption with one parent as your child’s legal guardian.
- Does the Oklahoma Adoption Process Differ for Same-Sex Couples?
No. If you are a same-sex couple wanting to adopt a child in Oklahoma, the process will not be any different than it is for opposite-sex adoptive parents. When you are applying for your adoption, you will face the same requirements as everyone else. This means that you will submit a confidential application through Adoption Choices of Oklahoma, interview with a social worker in a home study, and participate in adoption training.
As a prospective adoptive family, you will also be responsible for putting together an adoptive family profile, which will give birth mothers an idea of what your family is like through pictures and brief descriptions. While you do not have a responsibility to disclose your sexual identity, it is always good to be upfront and honest throughout the adoption process, especially if you are pursuing adoption as a single parent.
- What Should We Expect in the Home Study as a Same-Sex Couple in Oklahoma?
As a same-sex couple in Oklahoma, your home study experience will not be any different from that of opposite-sex couples. The main purpose of the home study is to ensure that all of our potential adoptive families are able to meet the needs of their future child, no matter the family arrangement. After this, Adoption Choices of Oklahoma will work with you to prepare for your child’s placement.
During the home study process, the adoptive parents will be carefully screened and approved before moving forward in the adoption process. This includes running criminal background checks, submitting reference letters, and participating in interviews with a social worker as well as a home visit. While many adoptive parents view the home visit as intimidating, there is no need to worry – as an LGBT couple (or single parent), you will be held to the same standard as everyone else.
Will You Choose Adoption as a Same-Sex Couple in Oklahoma?
If you are a same-sex couple looking to adopt a child, we understand that you may have some concerns about the adoption process in Oklahoma. However, Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is dedicated to working with adoptive parents from all walks of life, regardless of family arrangement. This means that we openly welcome LGBT couples and single parents, and our adoption counselors and caseworkers will work with you to answer your questions and find an adoption arrangement that works for your family.
As a same-sex couple considering adoption in Oklahoma, Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is here to help you throughout your adoption journey. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about navigating the adoption process as an LGBT couple or individual or if you have any other questions about the adoption process in general.
Adoption Choices of Oklahoma is a private adoption agency, licensed by the state of Oklahoma and leader in the adoption community. We have been assisting birth parents, children, and adoptive families in Oklahoma for over 19 years. Our staff members are committed to providing an ethical, empowering, and personalized adoption experience to all involved in the adoption process. If you are currently in the process of adopting a baby and have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.
Toll-free: 800-898-6028 | OKC Local: 405-755-1999 | Tulsa Local: 918-447-7777 | Text: 405-310-8790 | Email
Meet the Author: Jennie Knuppel is a student at the University of Texas at Austin studying English Literature. She is currently enrolled in the English Honors Program, for which she is writing a thesis in comparative literature prior to graduating in the spring of 2022. Jennie has previously taken courses in literature and both creative and technical writing, and she spent four years working in her high school’s journalism department.
Jennie is also currently working as a barista, and, in her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and pets.