E.  Other Attachments to the Adoption Petition


C.R.S. § 19-5-207(2.5)
C.R.S. § 19-5-210(4)

A background check on the adopting parents is also required. DHS, the child placement agency, or the designated qualified individual must check for any criminal records.

42 U.S.C.A. § 671(a)(20)
There must also be a check for any confirmed or pending child abuse reports. The court should require this background check at the earliest possible time, and if problems are revealed,  look for a different adoptive placement or permanent living arrangement.

C.R.S. § 19-5-203(g) – (i)
Verifications are required for adoptions arranged outside of Colorado. State DHS must verify:
  • The child placement agency is licensed by the other state;
  • Custody was obtained in compliance with the other state’s law;
  • The custody proceedings complied with federal immigration law.
C.R.S. § 19-5-208(4) ; C.R.J.P. 6


C.R.S. § 19-5-213

The adopting parents must also list all adoption expenses. 

This includes anything of value paid or to be paid. Money or other things of value may not be given or received for a relinquishment or adoption, except reasonable fees for attorneys, physicians and adoption exchange members. These persons must submit itemized bills to the court. The court must approve all charges.

C.R.J.P. 6




C.R.S. § 19-5-207(2.5)

C.R.S. § 19-5-203(2)
C.R.J.P. 6(b)


C.R.S. § 19-5-207(9)
C.R.S. § 19-5-208(4)

C.R.S. § 19-5-207(1)

All required attachments must be submitted at least ten days before the hearing. They may be attached to the petition or submitted later by the petitioner. In summary, the following are the attachments to the adoption petition:
  • Adoption home study;
  • Criminal and child abuse and neglect background check;
  • Child’s guardian and custodian’s written and verified consent;
  • Child’s written consent, if child is age twelve or older;
  • Documents concerning the child’s availability for adoption;
  • Copy of any court order of placement;
  • Affidavit of child placement agency that license is in good standing;
  • Statement of fees, costs, or expenses related to the adoption;
  • Out-of-state verification, if required; and
  • Interstate Compact notices, if required.