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Why Hire
an Adoption Attorney?
Adoption is a wonderful option for expanding your family, but
the laws governing the process can be quite complex. Working with an expert in
adoption law will help ensure that your adoption proceeds smoothly. An adoption
attorney will:
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Provide an unbiased explanation of adoption methods and resources and help
you develop a legally secure plan tailored to your needs; |
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Explain your rights and the adoption laws in your state or refer you to
adoption attorneys who practice in other states or internationally; | | | | |
| Assess the risks involved, including determining what costs are legally permissible
and ensuring that the birth parents’ rights are legally terminated before
placement is finalized |
| Review and negotiate adoption agency
contracts to ensure that your interests are served |
| Clarify your options for post-placement arrangements, if any, with birth parent(s) and draft or review an agreement to ensure your best interests
and those of the child are served. |
Tips for Choosing
an Adoption Attorney
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Contact an attorney as early as possible in the decision-making process. |
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Know what the attorney charges and how the fees are structured. Make sure
they are affordable. |
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Learn about the specific types of adoptions and services the attorney provides. Ask
what percentage of the practice is dedicated to adoption and how many adoption
proceedings the attorney has handled. |
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Ask for references. Ask lots of questions, share your concerns and provide
the attorney with all relevant documents. |
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Choose an attorney who is experienced in the type of adoption you are
considering. |
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The American Academy of Adoption Attorneys has members
throughout the U.S. and Canada who are experts in the complexities of adoption
law as well as interstate and international regulations surrounding adoption.
The Academy is the largest and most accessible resource for finding an adoption
attorney.
A printable Adobe PDF Version of the above
information is available by clicking on
AAAA Brochure.
For a referral or for more information about the American
Academy of Adoption Attorneys, please call: (202) 832-2222 or visit
the Directory
of Members on this website.
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