Columbia Adoption Lawyer

Many families dream of having children of their own, but are unable to do so. For these families, adoption can offer a wonderful alternative. Adoption may also be an appropriate option when a family member or friend becomes unable to care for their child for a variety of other reasons, such as death, physical or mental incapacity, or long-term incarceration. The adoption process is lengthy, and prospective parents may find it difficult to navigate by themselves. This is particularly true if the adoption will be contested by one or multiple parties. This is where a Columbia adoption lawyer can help.

If you and your family feel that adoption is the right or necessary path, an experienced family attorney from Price Benowitz can guide you through the process. Their team is passionate about working toward the best solution and can provide you with the necessary advice for your situation.

The Different Types of Adoption

There are many ways to adopt a child in the United States, and the best path depends on several factors. These include the adopting family’s wishes, the circumstances of the birth parent or parents, and—most importantly—the best interests of the child.

Working With an Agency

One of the more popular methods is working with a private or public agency. This is a common choice because the agency itself handles much of the foundational work, such as matching prospective families with children and arranging the various evaluations.

Private agencies specialize in facilitating the adoption process between hopeful parents and birth parents. The birth parents typically come to the agency because they are unable to care for their unborn child and want to ensure they find a good home. If both sides wish, the agency can arrange in-person meetings so the families can get to know each other before committing. The Maryland Department of Human Services oversees public agency adoptions in cases where the court has terminated the parental rights of both biological parents.

An agency may not be required in situations where there is an existing connection or relationship between the adoptive family and the birth parents or the child. For example, this might happen when a stepparent has assumed parental duties to their spouse’s children or grandparents have taken responsibility for their grandchildren.

Foster Family

Sometimes, an agency may place a child in foster care. This is typically intended as a temporary solution until the child can be reunited with their birth parent or other relative. Unfortunately, reunification does not always happen; instead, the child might form a relationship with their foster family. In this case, it may be possible for the foster family to formally adopt the child.

Families in Columbia can benefit from having the support of an attorney, regardless of which method they use to adopt. An experienced lawyer can help them determine the most appropriate route for their situation and provide representation throughout the process.

Requirements To Adopt

Adoption involves a formal legal process with specific eligibility requirements and procedures. Marriage is not required; single individuals and unmarried couples are also eligible. While there is no minimum income or asset threshold, prospective parents must demonstrate sufficient resources to support the family and provide appropriate care for the children.

Hopeful parents must also complete a home study. Conducted by the Department of Human Services, this study evaluates the child’s potential living situation, which includes touring the home, conducting a criminal background check on everyone living in the home, and verifying personal history. The prospective parents must also complete 27 hours of training to prepare for the responsibilities of taking care of a child.

Adopting in Columbia can take months, and going through the home study can feel overwhelming, but a devoted lawyer can help gather and prepare the appropriate documents so that nothing is missed and everything can proceed smoothly.

Ask a Columbia Lawyer About the Process of Adopting

If you are considering adopting a child, come to Price Benowitz and talk with a Columbia adoption lawyer. Their dedicated team of attorneys can help you determine the right path for you and your family.

The process is long and complex, but it can be worth the effort. Call Price Benowitz to arrange a meeting with a qualified lawyer today.