Adoption
Adoption cases are generally grouped into two categories: private adoptions and family adoptions.
Family Adoption
The term "family adoption" is a catch-all terms that refers to an
adoption where a child is adopted by a relative of that child
(sibling, cousin, aunt, uncle, grandparent, step-parent...)
The procedures for a family adoption are streamlined and do not
take as long as a regular adoption. For example, a home study (which
can cost over $1,000.00) is not required in a family adoption.
All adoptions require the consent of both parents, unless the
consent of a parent is waived or excused by the court. If a parent
has had no contact with their child for over one year, the court may
find that the parent has abandoned the child, and thereby waive or
excuse the requirement that they consent to the adoption. "Contact"
can include paying child support, visiting with the child, or
sending cards or presents at holidays or birthdays.
The determination of whether a child has been abandoned is made by the judge assigned to your case. This is routinely a complex issue. If you have additional questions, please call or email Mr. Mullaney from the CONTACT page.
Private Adoption
A "private adoption" occurs when a person or married couple adopts a child (or adult) to which they have no bood relation. While most private adoptions do not involve costly litigation, proper procedure must be followed to minimize the chance of future litigation if the biological parent changes their mind.
These procedures include obtaining a favorable home study, obtaining the VALID consents of the biological parents, and providing the proper notice to biological parents who have not consented to the adoption.
If you have additional questions, please call or email Mr. Mullaney from the CONTACT page.
