Legal Adoption Of A Child
Adoptions can occur within families, such as a family member or stepparent adoption, or privately through an adoption agency. In either instance, the process includes an adoption study, the appointment of a guardian ad litem, and the termination of at least one of the child’s biological parent’s rights.
Let Us Provide An Efficient Adoption Process
When parties involved are working together, the process of adopting a child can be relatively simple. Our experienced adoption attorneys at Gagne McChrystal De Lorenzo & Burghardt are here to assist you with your adoption needs. In instances where one or both of the biological parents do not agree with their parental rights being terminated, the process can be more lengthy and can include extensive time in court, including evidentiary hearings that may last several days.
Adoption results in many legal changes, including:
- Termination of one or both of the child’s biological parent’s rights to the child
- Termination of any rights the child had to his/her parents (such as the right to inherit from a parent)
- The adoptive parent, or parents, become the child’s parents and are listed as such on the child’s birth certificate
Courts will typically not allow one or both of the biological parent’s rights to be terminated unless and until there is someone lined up to adopt the child. In cases where a stepparent adopts a child, the stepparent assumes the same legal rights as the other parent and would have independent rights to the child’s custody and placement, as well as an ability to collect or receive child support, should the parties divorce.
Thinking About Adoption? Contact Our Attorneys To Learn More.
Adopting a child is an exciting time, but a time that involves many legal consequences. Contact one of our experienced attorneys in adoption law for knowledgeable legal guidance concerning the adoption process. Call for a consultation at 414-273-5551 or send us a request for an appointment.
