As long as a parent is deemed "fit" to care for a child, he or she can usually adopt.
Single parents can adopt as well. You will need to be able to show that you are able to care for the child and provide support even though you do not have the live in assistance and support of another adult. Our adoption attorneys can work with you to find the best method of adopting for your specific needs and goals.
What happens during the adoption process?
To begin the adoption process, you must go through a home study procedure. This investigative process takes a look at your lifestyle to make sure that you are able to provide a loving and supportive home to your adoptive child.
A social worker will usually conduct the study, but the final decision as to whether you are suitable to adopt is decided by the court.
The following information is considered in a home study:
- Financial and marital stability
Lifestyle choices - Career responsibilities
- Mental and physical health
- History of criminal activity
Next, a notice of adoption will be sent to the birth parents and or the child's legal representative. In order for the adoption to occur, the birth parents must give consent for adoption. If a birth parent is unfit, parental rights may be legally terminated which means you may not need birth parent consent.
An adoption petition will need to be filed. It is extremely beneficial to work alongside an adoption attorney during this process.
This petition will include information about you and your family, the adoptive child, a statement that outlines why you would be a good parent, and the legal reasons why the birth parents' rights are being terminated.
Lastly, an adoption hearing will occur. If the court decides that the adoption is in the child's best interest, the adoption will be finalized.
How Arnold Law can help
We want you to be able to fulfill your dreams by bringing a child into your family through adoption. If you feel that adoption is right for you, consult with our experienced adoption attorneys.
We want to make the adoption process easier and less stressful for you. We can help in a number of ways:
- We can find a child for you to adopt
- We can explain all of your options
- We can help prepare you for your home study
- We can handle all of the legal documents and paperwork
- We can represent you at your adoption hearing
If you have questions about adoption or if you want to hire an adoption attorney, contact our experienced adoption attorneys at Arnold Lawyers.
Call 904-264-3627, or email
