Adoption
A child needs a parent who can incorporate him/her into a loving, supportive and committed family. At the conclusion of the adoption, the adoptive parent will receive all rights and responsibilities of the legal parent; and as such the adoptive child will receive all social, emotional, and legal rights and responsibilities as a member of the family.
There is more to family law than just the law.
We know the importance of your family, so we offer representation not just from the mind but also from the heart.
Adoption
Adoption is a legal process which takes place before a Judge, resulting in a permanent relationship between a parent and a child. An adoptive parent can be married or single, and of any gender, ethnicity or sexual orientation.
Stepparent Adoption
When a child lives with a biological parent married to someone who is not the child’s other biological parent, a stepparent adoption may be ideal for the family. If the spouse wants to adopt the child, the process can move forward without any additional steps if both biological parents consent. If, however, the other biological parent does not consent, it may be necessary to undertake litigation terminating parental rights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may adopt?
- In the state of Pennsylvania, you must be at least 21 years of age to file for an adoption.
Who may place a child for adoption?
- Any person or entity who has the legal right to do so may place a child for adoption.
Is there such a thing as an adult adoption?
- Yes, when the adoptee turns 18, he/she can be adopted by a third party without notice to, or consent from, biological parents.
What are choices for adoption?
- There are different types of adoption: agency adoption, independent adoption, identified adoption, relative adoption, and international adoption.