Adoption
Adoption, from the first form to the finalization hearing
Underneath every adoption are the same three questions: who has to consent, who has to approve, and when does it become final. I walk you through each one for the kind of adoption you're pursuing.
I handle adoptions of infants, adoption by relatives, and the final step for foster parents who are adopting. International adoptions go to lawyers who do that work every day.
Adoptions I take on
Private adoption of an infant
Adoption by a relative or family friend
Foster-to-adopt finalization
A referral when the case is international
Step by step
How an adoption usually runs
- 01
Step 1: We talk first
We cover your family, what you hope for and the kind of adoption you're considering, and I explain the rules that apply.
- 02
Step 2: Preparing for the home study
A licensed provider writes the report. I explain what the social worker looks at and help you collect the documents.
- 03
Step 3: Match, placement and consent
When a placement is planned, I review the consents, the notices and any agreement about contact, and tell you when each becomes final.
- 04
Step 4: The petition and the hearing
I file the petition, prepare you for the hearing and go with you. Hearings are short and often joyful.
- 05
Step 5: After the final order
I help you order the new birth certificate and update records, so the paperwork matches the family.
What I'll ask you for
Gathering these early saves weeks. I'll send a checklist that fits your case.
Papers about you
Identity, marriage or divorce papers, and a child's birth record when there is one.
Checks and references
Fingerprints and reference letters, as the home study provider requires.
Health and money
A short medical statement and an overview of income and expenses.
Your home
Photographs, the address history and how the house is set up for a child.
Adoption, answered
What if the birth parent changes their mind?
The time for taking consent back, and what happens next, differ from place to place. Before you commit to a match, I explain how consent works where the adoption will be filed, and what the court looks at if a consent is challenged.
Can an agreement about contact be enforced?
In some places a written agreement with the birth family can be enforced by a court. In others it's a promise of good faith. I tell you which applies before anyone signs.
Can a relative adopt a child already living with them?
Often yes. The steps are usually shorter than for an infant adoption, but consents and notice still matter. Bring what you have and we'll map it.
Let's talk through your adoption
Tell me where you are, even if it's before you have a match. I'll say what I'd do next and whether I'm the right lawyer to help.
Please don't send confidential details through the form.