Adoption Resources : Thinking about Adopting : Choosing an Attorney

Choosing an Attorney

All states other than Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, and Minnesota allow private adoptions, whereby prospective adoptive parents can use an attorney to complete the associated legal process. Attorneys themselves are unable, however, to deliver the associated social services, e.g., counseling, which are important components of the adoption process. Should you want to explore the idea of using an attorney, click here for considerations and suggestions to keep in mind.

You may need or choose to hire an attorney to assist you with the necessary legal paperwork and court approval, even if you are using an adoption agency for counseling, assistance with locating a child in need of a permanent home, and completion of the home study. Your adoption agency may be able to recommend an adoption attorney in the state where the adoption will be finalized. Though not exhaustive, the American Academy of Adoption Attorneys is an available source for attorneys specializing in adoption.