How to Get Custody of Little Brother in Foster Care

[Vopros]

My question involves a child custody case from the State of: I am in New York, the child is in Illinois.

My 13 month old little brother is in foster care in Chicago and I would like to know what, if any, my options are for obtaining custody of him. Both of our parents have been convicted and are serving time for child abuse and various other charges. I am estranged from them and I know they would not give any sort of consent for me to care for my little brother, if that were a viable option, which it may not be with the severity of their convictions. I assume that their parental rights either have been or will soon be terminated. My worry is that my little brother will be adopted and I'll never see him again.

I am a 19 year old male. I'm making about $40k a year as a retail manager. I co-habitate with my 18 year old boyfriend. We're currently living in Manhattan. He is a student and does not work, but his family is supportive and well off. We have a spare room for my little brother. I would be interested in eventually adopting my little brother, but I'm aware this isn't a possibility until I'm 21. I would like to know what my options are in the mean time and what would be the best way to proceed. Thank you.

[Mr. Knowitall]

Have you been in contact with the case worker in charge of the case? Have you (or any other relatives) asked to be considered for an in-family placement?

[Vopros]

Have you been in contact with the case worker in charge of the case? Have you (or any other relatives) asked to be considered for an in-family placement?

I haven't spoken to the case worker myself yet, but I will do so soon. I'm trying to do my research before I speak to them, because I feel like it's important to show I've thought this through, given my age. My sister, who lives in the same state, spoke to them about the child being placed with me, but my impression from what was relayed to me was that you have to be 21 for either adoption or foster placement. None of our other family members are willing to take the child. Right now what I'm mostly curious about are what avenues I could pursue at my age. I had previously been under the impression that 18 was enough, but it seems most options are closed off until 21.

[NYI310]

You should not let your age be a hinderance to the welfare of your brother. You should still contact his case worker at CPS and let them know you are interested in taking your bother. And if they know your intentions, they are more likely not to allow him to be adopted. The more direct contact and communication you have with his case worker, the better off you will be. You will not only state your intent, but will be proving your commitment to your cause. You will want regular updates on your brother while he's in foster care. Good Luck.