Choosing to adopt is a wonderful and exciting decision. However, the adoption process itself is complicated and extensive with a lot of legal red tape. Parents that have come to the decision to adopt should not have to face the system alone. Get ease of mind by learning the important steps to take when officially starting an adoption case.
Find a Lawyer
One of the first steps prospective parents should take is to find a qualified professional to aid in the adoption process. It is important not to hire just any attorney, but one that has extensive experience in adoption cases. These attorneys help ease stress and strain on couples that may be facing this process for the first time and do not know what to expect.
At Esplin Weight, our family lawyers are specially trained in various types of adoption processes and know how best to handle these complex situations. Our past cases include step-parent adoptions, agency adoptions, and international adoptions. Our lawyers know what to expect with waiting periods, legal name changes, and child preferences. They understand the importance of adoption and will help couples face any challenge as it comes.
Prepare to Be Patient
Parents that are ready to adopt may find themselves surprised at how long the process takes. Whether an international agency adoption or a parent to grandparent adoption, all legal ownership changes take significant time. Prospective parents should expect to wait anywhere from 4 months to two years to fully finish the adoption process.
One of the greatest benefits of hiring an adoption attorney is they can ensure the legal requirements are met in a timely manner, preventing any major delays in the proceedings. Regardless of delays or waiting periods, do not give up hope. Our team will work tirelessly to make sure the adoption is completed in the most efficient way possible.
State Your Preferences
When beginning the adoption search, many couples will be asked to state their preferences and needs. Do not be afraid to be blunt and specific about your wants and needs. For example, take the time to carefully evaluate the amount of time and effort you can spend with your future child. If a child with special needs seems like an overwhelming commitment for your current home situation, state that. Do not worry about how your needs and preferences might sound to others.
The important thing is finding the best pairing between child and parents. When working with an attorney, it is important to make these needs and desires clear. Good communication with an attorney can serve as an extra safety net to ensure a well placed child.
Understand Evaluations
Though each agency and situation is different, there are a few things parents must do in order to be approved for further adoption potential. For example, many agencies require parents to complete home studies and questionnaires before continuing. This process can take a very long time in order to conduct a thorough analysis and gather all necessary legal materials such as criminal background checks. Working with an attorney can help you secure all the documents you need in order to speed up the process and make it as efficient as possible.
Though the adoption process can seem overwhelming, especially to first time adopters, our legal team can help you along the way. Our highly experienced team of family lawyers know all the ins and outs of adoption law and can give you peace of mind as you navigate these proceedings.
Start your adoption with confidence at Esplin Weight. Call us today at 801-373-4912 or come into our Provo Office to talk with one of our family lawyers.
