Legal adoptions can occur under various different circumstances, each of which are governed by different procedures and requirements. Infants, older children, step-children and adults can all be adopted. Adoptions can be facilitated through designated agencies or private placements. Adoptions can originate domestically or adoptions secured in foreign countries can (and should) be formalized domestically.
The rules and procedures governing adoptions can be quite detailed and extensive and involve multiple issues, including the required notices, consents and releases, the expenditure of funds, the disclosure of information and documentation, applicable waiting periods and residency obligations and other legal requirements.
To discuss any issues or questions with respect to adoptions, please contact Lawrence
J. Schwind.