Adoption
Adoption, from the first consent form to the final order
Adoption is the happy side of family court. It still runs on exact paperwork, and one missing consent can hold up a hearing for months.
I handle stepparent adoptions, adoptions by grandparents and other relatives, and the legal side of agency adoptions. I gather the consents, file the petition, arrange any background checks and home study the court asks for, and stand with your family at the final hearing.
Adoptions I handle
Stepparent adoption, with or without the other parent’s consent
Grandparents and relatives raising a child already in their home
The court side of an agency or foster adoption
A new birth certificate once the order is signed
Fees
What an adoption costs here
Quoted in writing after the first meeting. Filing fees, background checks and any home study are paid separately, at cost.
- Flat fee
Stepparent adoption
The other parent consents. Includes the consent forms, the petition, the hearing and the order.
- Flat fee
Relative adoption
A grandparent, aunt or uncle adopting a child they’re raising. Includes the court’s home study steps.
- Hourly, with a retainer
When a parent won’t consent
The other parent objects or can’t be found. Billed hourly against the retainer, because the court process is longer.
What families ask about adoption
How long does a stepparent adoption take?
With signed consents, usually three to six months from filing to the final order.
Can the child come to the hearing?
Yes, and most families bring them. Some judges invite the child up front for a photo once the order is signed.
What if we can’t find the other parent?
The court has a process for notice when a parent can’t be found. It adds time, and I handle each step.
Will the child’s name change?
It can. The adoption order can include a new name, and it leads to a new birth certificate.
Ready to make it official
Bring the child’s birth certificate and any custody orders to the first meeting.