According to Utah State Law, Pre-Placement Evaluations, or home studies, are required to be completed. This purpose of this document is to "assess the prospective adoptive parent and the prospective adoptive home." The home study must include:

• a criminal history background check

• a report containing all information regarding reports and investigations of child abuse, neglect, and dependency

• a recommendation to the court regarding the suitability of the prospective adoptive parent for placement of a child;

• a description of in-person interviews with the prospective adoptive parent, the prospective adoptive parent's children, and other individuals living in the home;

• a description of character and suitability references from at least two individuals who are not related to the prospective adoptive parent and with at least one individual who is related to the prospective adoptive parent;

• a medical history and a doctor's report, based upon a doctor's physical examination of the prospective adoptive parent, made within two years before the date of the application; and

• a description of an inspection of the home to determine whether sufficient space and facilities exist to meet the needs of the child and whether basic health and safety standards are maintained.

The final report is filed with the court and reviewed by the judge.

Additionally, Post-Placement Evaluations are required by Utah State Law before the final hearing. This evaluation includes:

• verification of the allegations of fact contained in the petition for adoption;

• an evaluation of the progress of the child's placement in the adoptive home; and

• a recommendation regarding whether the adoption is in the best interest of the child.

A parent has the right to receive counseling, per Utah State Law for up to three 50 minute sessions at the expense of the prospective adoptive parent(s).