Are you considering adoption? For any adoption—whether you are planning to adopt a stepchild or a child from another country—there are a few basic steps you must always follow. Understanding the adoption process can help you prepare for various elements of the matter and ensure you are ready to face any potential complications. To adopt a child, you must take the following steps:
Secure the consent of the child's birth parents.
Before legally adopting a child, you must first secure the consent of the child's birth parents. Even if the parents seem willing to adopt, you cannot take their approval for granted until they have legally consented. In family adoptions, it may be necessary to undergo a court process to determine that a parent cannot provide for their family before you can even begin the adoption process.
Undergo a home study.
In addition to getting the parents' approval for adoption, you must also seek approval from the court. To do this, you must undergo a home study, which serves both as an investigation of your parenting capability and an opportunity to learn about the adoption process. Your finances, marriage, and numerous other facets of life will play a role in determining the result of your home study.
Complete the petition process.
When you are ready to adopt, you can file a petition for adoption. This will describe all parties involved and explain why the adoption is necessary/valid. The hearing will be decided in the child's best interest, and all related matters related to the adoption will be settled.
Why hire a family lawyer?
The various types of adoption pose problems that may be difficult to resolve without professional legal guidance. For example, in a private adoption, an attorney can help you formalize all proceedings and ensure the process is legally valid. Additionally, in cases where you might be adopting a stepchild, grandchild, or other relative, you may require legal assistance as you fight for the child's rights. A skilled lawyer may be the valuable asset you need as you begin this new phase in your life.
The Law Offices of Donald Mastrodomenico, P.C. can provide experienced legal counsel for your case. Our firm has experience in thousands of cases, and we stand highly recommended by judges in Queens and the surrounding areas. Please speak with a Queens family lawyer from our firm today to receive prompt, affordable, and experienced service!