Many people choose to build their families through adoption, which is the legal process of creating a new parent-child relationship. Adoption can take place through many different routes, and each has its own set of laws and procedures at the state, federal, and even international level. If you are considering adoption, consulting a Jersey City adoption attorney is a great first step to take so you can manage your expectations and expedite this usually complex process, which, depending on the circumstances, can take as long as five years.

The Bhatt Law Group’s compassionate and knowledgeable family law attorneys have helped many people in New Jersey with the adoption process, which may include working with an adoption agency or directly with birth parents. You can trust us to prepare and file the necessary documentation, and, if necessary, we will represent you in any court proceedings. We have enabled many of our clients to fulfill their dreams of building their families through adoption and we look forward to helping you as well.

Call us today at (201) 798-8000 for a free initial consultation on your case.

Services Provided by an Adoption Lawyer

Prospective adoptive parents can consult with an adoption attorney regarding the various types of adoption available to them and which would be the best fit for them. Adoption can either take place directly with the birth mother or through an adoption agency. It may be domestic or international. If domestic, parents may also choose to adopt from the foster care system or from another state. Prospective parents may also choose between open or closed adoptions, and what kinds of medical and living expenses they are willing to pay to the birth mother.

All of the decisions associated with adoption are complex in nature, and an adoption attorney can explain what each of these options entails and which ones may work best for the prospective parents. The adoption attorney will also facilitate the necessary relationship with an adoption agency, especially in international adoption situations.

Birth mothers who want to place a child for adoption may also consult with an adoption attorney who will work with them to develop an adoption plan. The plan may outline whether the birth mother wants an open or closed adoption, and, if open, how much and when contact with her is permitted. An adoption attorney can also help the birth mother gain comprehensive profiles on prospective adoptive families, help her choose a family that meets her wishes, and facilitate interviews as needed. Finally, the attorney can help a birth mother craft adoption plan terms that include prenatal care, expenses for living expenses and medical care, as well as counseling.

Adoption Process and Costs

The process of adoption can take several years, and an attorney should be able to provide you with a realistic view of the process and how long it can take. This often depends on the kind of adoption a prospective parent decides to undertake.

All prospective adoptive parents must complete a home study regardless of the kind of adoption involved. A home study prepares the prospective parents and compiles information about them and their fitness for adoption. All costs involved are paid for by prospective parents. Additionally, adoptions are typically finalized in court, which includes its own procedures and costs.

If you decide to work with an adoption agency, each agency will come with its own specific fees and costs depending on the services the agency provides, such as pre- and post-adoption support. Even if you work with an agency, you should have an attorney to finalize the placement in court. The adoption process can be costly, and an initial consultation with a knowledgeable and experienced adoption attorney should help you gain a realistic view of the costs you may be facing.

Experienced Jersey City Adoption Lawyers

Despite the complexity of the procedures and laws involved in adoption, it is still a valuable process for prospective parents and birth mothers alike and can greatly enrich the lives of those involved. Bhatt Law Group has attorneys with years of combined experience in helping people with adoptions throughout New Jersey.

Don’t hesitate to call one of our experienced Jersey City adoption attorneys at (201) 798-8000 for a free initial consultation.