Adoption is an intensive, document-heavy process, as the courts need to know whether you are right for the child on several different levels. As a result, you would be well advised to have an experienced Sussex County, Sparta adoption attorney to learn the answers to some of the frequently asked questions about adoption in New Jersey.
What does the New Jersey adoption process entail?
To begin the adoption process, you will enter a 27-hour training period, known as the “Home Study.” You will also be required to submit various personal documents and information, such as your financial standing, employment, schooling and medical references, among others.
Once you submit your application to adopt a child and acquire the state’s approval to adopt, you will have to meet and match with a child, have all involved parties give their consent to the adoption and finalize the adoption in court. You will be subjected to home visits afterward to ensure your child is in a safe, positive environment.
What types of adoptions are available?
You may adopt through the following processes:
- Domestic adoption: When a U.S. resident chooses to adopt a child who was born in the U.S. Typically, this process will involve an adoption agency.
- International adoption: When you adopt a child from another country. This type of adoption is much more intricate and demands a lot of travel to and from the child’s home country, so it is important you understand all it entails before proceeding.
- Second-parent adoption: A same-sex parent may adopt his or her biological or adoptive child without terminating the first parent’s legal status as a parent.
- Private adoption: When you either adopt a child through his or her biological parent or adopt a child you already know. You can usually avoid adoption agencies by taking this route.
- Step-parent adoption: This form of adoption requires either the consent of the non-custodial parent or the termination of his or her biological parental rights. This typically only occurs when there is evidence of abuse or neglect.
- Adult adoption: This typically occurs when two or more adults wish to transfer inheritance rights and/or filiation.
How can a New Jersey adoption attorney help you?
Regardless of the type of adoption you choose, the process is an invasive one. To ensure that the child will be placed in a happy, healthy and stable environment, your life will receive close scrutiny. For example, you may be required to participate in training courses, background checks, home visits, reference checks and more. Given the importance of this legal process, you should have one of our skilled Sparta, NJ children and parenting issues attorneys to protect your rights and see that you fulfill your responsibilities.
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We understand that those getting a divorce most likely have several questions regarding the weeks and months to come. Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is honored to serve the people of New Jersey, including Sparta, Sussex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Bergen County with the quality legal services they deserve. If you are getting a divorce or have any other questions regarding divorce-related matters, please do not hesitate to contact our firm for a consultation today.