Adoption attorneys report that there are a considerable number of people that find themselves wanting to pursue adoption for many different reasons.
While there are some differences in the statutes and regulations governing adoption from one state to another according to adoption lawyers, there are also some elements that all of the states have in common.
As suggested by experienced adoption attorneys, it is helpful to know the common elements of adoption law so that any potential parent will be in the best position to pursue the adoption of a child.
Termination of Parental Rights
The first step in any adoption process according to adoption lawyers is the termination of the parental rights of the birth parents which can be accomplished in one of two different ways:
- The birth parents can voluntarily surrender their parental rights.
- If the parents are not willing to voluntarily surrender their parental rights, there are instances in which the parental rights can be severed which normally occurs in a situation in which the birth parents have been charged with abuse or neglect of the child.
Next Adoption Process Actions
According to adoption attorneys, once the parental rights have been terminated, the child is then available for adoption.
During this period, a home study is undertaken which is a basic analysis to ascertain whether or not an individual or couple seeking to adopt a child is appropriate to become a parent.
Adoption lawyers tell their clients that a home study consists of an actual consideration of the residential environment itself, the individual's or couple's work history, and item important considerations.
Following approval through the home study process, the child that is to be adopted can be placed in the potential parents' home.
Finalizing The Adoption
A petition is filed by the adoption attorney with the court seeking approval of the proposed adoption.
The written home study is also filed with the court at time as it is a crucial element of the overall court case pertaining to the adoption itself.
The court and your adoption lawyer will schedule a hearing within a specified period of time to consider all of the evidence relating to the adoption itself and providing everything is in order, the court will approve the adoption.
Experienced adoption attorneys advise their clients that when an adoption is approved, it is permanent and there is no going back.
When the court issues an order approving an adoption, the child becomes fully and completely the child of the adoptive parents as if that child was the biological offspring of the adoptive parents.
An Important Role
Adoption attorneys play a vital role in this entire process by helping their client correctly complete all necessary documents and complete all actions that must be taken for the family court to approve the adoption.
Then it is time for celebration of the new addition to your family!