PLM Family Law

Growing Families Through Adoption

Adoptions are nearly always joyous events uniting families. The experienced adoption attorneys at Parvey, Larson, and McLean are grateful for the opportunity to be a small part of this monumental event in your family.

Types Of Adoption Proceedings

A single adult or a couple can adopt another person of almost any age. A home study is typically required before the adoption of a child. In some cases, adoption is relatively straightforward. In others, it can be complex and lengthy. Variable processes apply to different types of adoption such as the following:

  • Stepparent or other relative adoption: Adoption matters involving a stepparent or another relative (a grandparent, aunt, uncle, sibling or cousin, for example) are common in families experiencing transitions.
  • Direct adoption: In direct adoption situations, the intended parents enter private agreements with the birth parent(s) to adopt a child, usually when that child is an infant.
  • Agency adoption: Agency adoptions are common. Agencies work to bring prospective adoptive parents together with birth parents or with older children in the foster care system.
  • Adult adoption: In certain circumstances, people want to legally adopt another adult. Often, an elderly person wants to give legal standing as a son or daughter to an important person such as a trustworthy caregiver.

Regardless of what type of adoption you are considering, it is important to hire an adoption lawyer with the knowledge and experience needed to handle that type of proceeding.

Understanding The Adoption Process

The process for each adoption varies depending on whether it involves a stepparent or relative adoption, an identified adoption, or an adoption through an agency.

In most cases, the process involves gathering necessary documents, serving papers on biological parents and the state, and a brief hearing before a judge.

Typically, biological parents’ rights are to be terminated before, or at the same time as, the adoption. Depending on the type of adoption you want, the process may be relatively fast and inexpensive when compared to other family law matters. However, if a birth parent refuses to consent to the adoption or if complications arise with an adoption agency, having a trusted adoption lawyer on your side can help resolve any difficulties.

Take The First Step Toward Adoption Today

Choose the reputable adoption and family law attorneys at Parvey, Larson, and McLean. Together, we have 35 years of experience serving individuals and families in North Dakota and Minnesota.

To learn more, schedule a consultation today by calling 701-347-1383 or completing our online inquiry form.