Your adult children may be unable to care for their own children for various reasons. In this situation, it could be necessary to adopt your grandchildren.
The Pennsylvania Legislature says that you can initiate adoption proceedings under several circumstances. Your grandchildren may experience abuse or neglect at home and it could be unsafe for them to live with their parents. If child services play a role in the situation, you can petition for adoption to keep your grandchildren together.
Practical considerations
Before making the adoption official, a court typically considers the relationship that you have with your grandchildren. Have you played an active part in their lives? Do the children feel comfortable with you? Sometimes, your grandchildren may live with you before you petition for adoption. A court usually considers whether this living situation has been beneficial for all of you.
Health considerations
Like many seniors, you may develop health conditions as you age. Helping Grow Families says that a court could consider how a condition affects your daily life. If your health will not prevent you from providing care, you can typically continue with the adoption process. You may need to provide your medical history to the court.
Financial considerations
Raising a child can add several expenses to your monthly budget. Before granting an adoption, the court usually makes sure that you can provide financially. The court may need to evaluate your finances to make sure that your income is consistent and that you can afford clothing and food for your grandchildren.
Pennsylvania places few restrictions on grandparent adoptions. The most important factor is that you will be a loving and supportive figure for your grandchildren.