Home Study FAQs

Home Study FAQs

What is a home study certification?

A home study certification for private adoption involves things like background checks, child abuse clearances, medical clearances, financial review, interviews,  home visits, and specialized trainings all conducted by a licensed social worker or licensed child placing agency. It’s how families are officially approved and cleared for private adoption. The process typically takes a few months to complete. 

Do I need a home study to adopt in Louisiana?

Yes. A home study is typically required for private adoption in Louisiana. It is a legal requirement and must be completed by a licensed provider before an adoption can be finalized. A home study is not typically required in intra-family/stepparent or adult adoptions.

I already have a foster care certification through DCFS. Does that count as a home study?

No.
A foster care or foster/adopt certification through the State of Louisiana does not meet the requirements for a private (domestic) adoption home study.

Why doesn’t my DCFS home study work for private adoption?

DCFS home studies are completed for foster care purposes only and follow a different process and set of requirements.

Private adoption home studies must be completed by a licensed private provider and are specifically written to meet legal standards for domestic/private (AKA independent) adoptions.

Can DCFS release my home study so I can use it?

In most cases, no.
DCFS typically does not release home studies for use in private adoption proceedings.

Even if it were released, it generally would not meet the legal requirements for private adoption.

If I’m already certified to foster or foster/adopt, do I still need another home study?

Yes.
You will need to complete a separate private adoption home study if you plan to pursue a private or domestic adoption.

Does your office complete home studies?

No.
Odom-Saska Adoptions handles the legal aspects of adoption, but we do not complete home studies.

How do I find someone to complete my home study?

We maintain a list of trusted home study providers in Louisiana who regularly complete private adoption home studies.