ADOPTION is an exciting time for the parents adopting a child. It is also an extremely difficult time for the parent giving up his or her child to be adopted. We recognize both emotions and work with families accordingly.
Generally, the adopting person must be 10 years older than the adoptee, the adoptee must be under 18 years old and unmarried; and the biological parent, a licensed adoption agency or the Department of Social Services must authorize the adoption. The legal rights of any non-consenting parent must be terminated prior to the adoption by the new adoptive parent.
If you are interested in adopting an adult, the adoptee must consent to being adopted. Usually, this is a step-parent adoption.
In order to obtain an adoption:
- The adoptive parent(s) must file a Petition with the court
- Notification must be provided to anyone who must give their consent:
- biological parents
- adoption agency
- child if over 12
- legal representative
- Attend an adoption hearing
The adoption is not complete until the judge has signed a final decree of adoption.
CONTACT OUR OFFICE TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT TO DISCUSS YOUR CASE.