If the child has been placed for adoption by a private adoption agency, the agency will forward its petition to the Gila County Attorney for review and filing with the Court.

General information for adopting parents:

• Fingerprints are a requirement for all adoptions. Pre-certification is required for all non-related adoptions, with the exception of foster parent adoptions.  It may take up to four months to complete this initial process.
• Consent of Natural Parent(s): If written consent for the adoption is not provided by the natural parent(s) or parental rights have not been previously severed, it may be necessary for adopting parents to contact a private attorney concerning the severance of parental rights.
• Home Study: This is a requirement for all adoptions.  The Arizona Department of Economic Security has previously done all home studies in Gila County for related adoptions; however, this will be changing in the very near future.  D.E.S. will be working with the County Attorney and the Courts to find service providers to complete the home studies at a reduced rate.
• Each adoption has different circumstances.  You will be advised if your adoption can be finalized in 60 days, 90 days, or 6 months after all prerequisites have been completed.
• Final adoption hearing: may be scheduled in Globe or Payson for the convenience of the adopting parents.