Adoption Agency Compliance

The Benefits Of Adoption Agency Compliance

Agencies are required to remain in substantial compliance with Hague standards to provide adoption services in international adoption. Agencies are overseen and monitored by an accrediting entity. The accrediting entity engages in ongoing monitoring and oversight and every four years the agency must go through the renewal process which requires a self-study and site visit. It is important for agencies to maintain substantial compliance so that there are no interruptions in the agency’s ability to provide adoption services. 

Hague compliance is crucial for Hague Accredited or Hague Approved adoption agencies, as it helps to protect the rights and interests of all parties involved and ensures that adoptions are conducted in a safe, fair, and transparent manner. At Dempsey Law, we understand the importance of compliance and offer services to adoption agencies to ensure they are in compliance with Hague regulations.

Adoption is a complex process with many different steps and requirements, and compliance is a vital part of ensuring that the process goes smoothly for everyone involved. Adoption agencies are responsible for following all applicable laws and regulations.  Agencies are facing ever-increasing scrutiny when it comes to compliance, and Dempsey Law is here to help. 

Why Work With An Adoption Agency Compliance Attorney

Working with a law firm that has experience in adoption agency Hague compliance can provide peace of mind for adoption agencies and help them focus on their core mission serving the best interests of children. Our team has extensive experience in the field of adoption and is well-versed in Hague compliance for adoption agencies. 

What Are The Benefits of Hiring An Adoption Agency Compliance Attorney

Maintaining Hague compliance can be stressful and confusing. Dempsey Law is here to help. There are three main ways I can help agencies with Hague compliance: 1) outside compliance counsel; 2) Renewal of Hague Accreditation or Approval; and 3) representing agencies who have received an adverse action from their accrediting entity. 

• Outside compliance counsel – This is for agencies that need support for compliance-based projects other than Hague renewal. This work could include providing trainings, assessment of agency practices, and proving support in achieving compliant practices in general. 
• Renewal of Hague Accreditation or Approval – Hague Accreditation or Approval must be renewed every 4 years. This involves the submission of policies, procedures, narratives, and other evidence to show compliance with all 167 standards/regulations. This submission is called an Application B or Self-Study. The renewal also requires that the accrediting entity visit the agency to interview staff and review records. Dempsey Law may assist agencies with the preparation of their Application B/Self-Study and preparation for the site visit.  
• Representing agencies in adverse action – There are four types of adverse actions that can be issued by an accrediting entity (corrective action, cessation, suspension, and cancellation). Dempsey Law represents agencies in correcting and responding to adverse actions by the accrediting entity. 

How Do Adoption Agencies Stay Compliant?

Adoption agencies take several steps to ensure compliance with state and federal laws. Additionally, they also take steps to remain compliant with the standards and guidelines of accrediting organizations. These steps include:

1. Familiarizing themselves with relevant laws and regulations: At Dempsey Law, we understand the specific rules and regulations that apply to the adoption process and to Hague compliance.
2. Establishing clear policies and procedures: Compliant agencies have clear policies and procedures in place for all aspects of their work, including the placement of children and the handling of fees and expenses. These policies and procedures should be documented and clearly demonstrate compliance with relevant regulations.
3. Maintaining accurate and detailed records: Compliant agencies maintain accurate and detailed records related to each adoption, including the placement of children, any fees or expenses paid,  among other things. These records are kept in a secure and confidential manner.
4. Seeking accreditation:  By law, in order to provide intercountry adoption services, the adoption agency must be Hague Accredited or Approved by an accrediting entity designated by the U.S. Department of State. These organizations provide  monitoring and oversight in an effort to help ensure that adoption agencies are meeting the highest standards of practice.

Contact An Adoption Agency Compliance Attorney Today

At Dempsey Law, we are committed to helping adoption agencies succeed and grow. We understand the importance of building strong and lasting relationships with our clients, and we work hard to provide the highest level of service possible. If you are an intercountry adoption agency in need of compliance services, we encourage you to reach out to us to learn more about how we can help..

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